HI SR214

Urges the United States Senate to ratify the High Seas Treaty, a UN agreement on conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, negotiated by over 190 nations including the United States and finalized on March 4, 2023.

Emphasizes Hawaii's unique relationship with the ocean and coral reefs, and notes that ocean health is critical to the State's economy, environment, and culture while facing threats from climate change beyond State control.

Highlights that more than 60 percent of ocean surface areas are beyond any nation's jurisdiction, and marine resources in the high seas have little legal protection, allowing exploitation that can cause irreversible harm to biodiversity and ecosystems.

Notes that 80 percent of carbon stored in the ocean is in the deep ocean below 1,000 meters, making deep-sea ecosystem protection essential to mitigating climate change impacts and preventing atmospheric carbon dioxide increases.

Directs transmission of certified copies to Hawaii's congressional delegation, the Governor, Chairperson of the Board of Land and Natural Resources, and mayors of each county.