European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced a €1 billion investment in ocean conservation, supporting 50 global projects aimed at restoring marine ecosystems, modernising fishing fleets, reducing plastic pollution, and curbing illegal fishing.

Speaking at the UN ocean summit in Nice, she stated the urgent need to close funding gaps in ocean science and sustainable fisheries.

President Von der Leyen said the EU’s new Ocean Pact includes digital fish catch tracking and regional partnerships in the Mediterranean, West Africa, and the Pacific to strengthen marine protection.

French President Emmanuel Macron backed the initiative, stressing the need for Europe to lead on safeguarding maritime zones.

The announcement comes amid warnings that only 2.7% of the world’s oceans are effectively protected, far from the 30% goal set under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.