During the IUCN World Conservation Congress held in Abu Dhabi, delegates voted to adopt a motion urging the protection of the ocean's mesopelagic zone, which lies between 200 and 1,000 meters below the surface. This nonbinding motion emphasizes the need for precautionary measures regarding potential activities such as fishing, deep-sea mining, and geoengineering. The mesopelagic zone is ecologically significant, housing a vast biomass of fish and playing a crucial role in the marine food web and carbon cycle. The motion aims to guide future activities based on scientific understanding and calls for regular monitoring and management measures. While the motion does not impose an outright ban on activities, it represents a significant step towards raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices in this critical ocean layer.