Antarctic Treaty, 1959

Question 1

How is the treaty sustainable?

Answer 1

• Bans on all commercial mining and resource extraction.
• Activities must have an Environmental Impact Assessment.
• Strict rules about the introduction of non-native species so that ecosystems aren’t disturbed.
• Only 100 visitors are allowed to land at any one time.
• Cruise ships of over 500 passengers are prevented from stopping.

Question 2

What are the problems?

Answer 2

• The treaty doesn’t cover the ocean surrounding Antarctica so there is little protection to marine wildlife e.g. whales and fish.