Threats To Antarctica Flashcards
(34 cards)
When did fishing in Antarctica begin?
18th century
Which species has become extinct because of fishing ?
Fur seals by 1800
Which species is at risk of extinction?
Patagonian toothfish
What did exploitation of fishing grounds result in?
Tragedy of the commons
Krill fished in 2013
Over 200,000 tonnes
Overfishing consequences
-by catch
-marine organisms eg. Seals die as they rely on fish as a food source
-fish species at risk of extinction
When was commercial whaling banned?
International whaling commission
South ocean sanctuary 1994
Why is whale fishing dangerous for whale populations?
Whales are slow breeders
Takes a long time for stocks to replenish
Why is the future of whale fishing at risk ?
Japan has built whaling boats that can reach Antarctica
Risk of whaling commission being broken
Which resources located in Antarctica are appealing to mine?
Iron
Oil
Coal
Gold
Why is mining in Antartica challenging?
Not economically viable
Conditions are too harsh
When was mining banned?
Madrid Protocol by the Antarctic Treaty System 1991
Which countries opposed banning mining?
UK, USA, Japan
How has Antarctica’s tourism industry increased?
1980s less than 2000 annual visitors
2019 75,000 annual visitors
Why has the tourism industry increased in Antarctica?
Advances in transport, technology, clothing has improved access
Risk of icebergs example
2007 Canadian cruise ship wrecked on an iceberg
Tourism impact on wildlife/ecosystems
-oil spills from boats could lead to damage to wildlife
-disturbs breeding colonies of birds
-disturbances are long term eg. Footprints on moss
-trampling delicate vegetation
Tourism invasive species
Mediterranean muscles
How is environmentally friendly tourism conducted?
- Self regulation of industry by international association of Antarctic Tour Operator (IAATO)
Antarctic treaty system principles regarding tourism
-one ship landing at a time
-limiting number of tourists ashore
-no tourist litter, waste transported home
-distance kept with wildlife
How can tourism be sustainable?
Tourists can become ambassadors for taking care of the environment / Antarctica.
How large is the transient population of scientists in Antartica?
4000 people
How many research stations are there?
50
How has waste regulation changed?
In 1980s waste no longer dumped into the sea
