Governance Of Antarctica Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is the Madrid Protocol?
The Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1991, to protect Antarctica’s environment.
What major activity does the protocol ban?
All mining in Antarctica.
What environmental controls does the protocol enforce?
Rules to protect plants and animals, regulate waste, and prevent pollution
What assessment is required before new activities?
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).
What is a key weakness of the protocol’s enforcement?
No system ensures countries follow the rules; disputes rely on negotiation or the International Court of Justice.
What slows down decision-making under the protocol?
Consensus is required from all countries, leading to delays (e.g. marine reserves blocked by Russia/Ukraine).
How long is the protocol set to last?
Until 2048.
How are decisions enforced nationally?
Countries have national laws to apply the protocol’s rules to their citizens in Antarctica.
What is UNEP’s role in Antarctica?
It reports Antarctic activity to the UN and oversees environmental governance.
What does UNEP stand for?
United Nations Environment Programme
How often is the “Question of Antarctica” reported?
Every 3 years by the UN Secretary-General.
Which body runs the Antarctic programme for UNEP?
The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
What does CCAMLR aim to do?
Stop illegal fishing and conserve marine ecosystems.
What limits CCAMLR’s effectiveness?
Countries protecting their interests—e.g., 5 years to set up Ross Sea marine protected area; fishing quotas not reduced.
What does the International Whaling Commission (IWC) regulate?
Whaling, ensuring whale populations remain sustainable
What sanctuary did the IWC create in 1994?
The Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary
What is a common criticism of the IWC?
Poor monitoring of whale numbers in the sanctuary.
What did the 1982 Whaling Moratorium do?
Banned all commercial whaling globally, including Antarctica.
How is the whaling commission’s success monitored?
By estimating whale populations using sightings and modelling.
What monitoring improvements are suggested by some countries (e.g., USA, Australia)?
Independent observers on whaling boats and boat registration.
Which countries challenge IWC’s authority to enforce stricter rules?
Japan and Norway.
What is an example of non-compliance with the moratorium?
Japan continues whaling for ‘scientific research’ despite the ban.
What role do NGOs play in Antarctica?
Monitoring threats, providing expertise, and campaigning to protect the environment.
Why are NGOs considered vital?
Governments can’t monitor all aspects; NGOs offer independence and raise awareness
