Story perspectives

California Bans Gillnets, Boosts Marine Conservation Ahead of UN Treaty

10/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

The United Nations High Seas Treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction takes effect January 2026 and aims to protect life in waters by establishing marine protected areas and mandating environmental impact assessments.
California is phasing out destructive fishing methods, including set and drift gillnets.
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1056 to end set gillnets.
The drift gillnet fishery will be eliminated by 2027, signaling progress in marine conservation.

History

Historical Context

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), established in 1982 and effective from 1994, redefined maritime rights, replacing the outdated "freedom of the seas" concept. California's recent Assembly Bill 1056, targeting harmful fishing practices, aligns with global conservation efforts initiated by UNCLOS, reflecting a growing commitment to marine biodiversity and sustainable ocean management.

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Story summary

The United Nations High Seas Treaty on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction takes effect January 2026 and aims to protect life in waters by establishing marine protected areas and mandating environmental impact assessments.
California is phasing out destructive fishing methods, including set and drift gillnets.
California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 1056 to end set gillnets.
The drift gillnet fishery will be eliminated by 2027, signaling progress in marine conservation.

1 / 2