Mining the Antarctic: Threats, Challenges and the Australian Response to the Madrid Protocol
Article from: OGEL 2 (2016), in Polar Energy Law (Arctic, Antarctic)
Abstract
The Antarctic region is home to a vast array of mineral resources. While the exact extent of Antarctica's mineral wealth remains unknown, evidence suggests that the region contains deposits of iron ore, chromium, copper, gold, nickel, platinum, oil and coal. Competition for these resources could present a potentially fierce geopolitical situation, and result in significant implications for Antarctica's delicate ecosystem and environment. The decision made in 1991 to implement a treaty banning mining in Antarctica therefore represents a landmark achievement in international cooperation ...