India recently led the charge in Antarctic conservation efforts by welcoming new members to the protection treaty and designating 17 new environmentally significant zones.
India : Antarctic protection treaty, adds 17 new protected zones
In a significant development in environmental governance, India recently hosted the 46th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting in Kochi. This meeting brought together 56 treaty parties to discuss crucial policy, logistics, legal, and administrative decisions for Antarctica. The focus was on strengthening governance and regulations for the region to ensure its preservation for future generations.
One of the highlights of the meeting was the welcoming of Saudi Arabia as the 57th member of the Antarctic Treaty, emphasizing the importance of responsible nations coming together for the inclusive preservation of the environment. India, a Consultative Treaty Party since 1983, played a pivotal role in advocating for inclusivity and diversity in environmental protection efforts.
With the increasing number of tourists visiting Antarctica, India introduced a working group to regulate tourism in the region. The aim is to promote responsible and sustainable practices to minimize the impact of tourism on the fragile ecosystem of Antarctica. This initiative aligns with India’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
India, which operates research bases in Antarctica, also announced plans to build a new station to replace the existing Maitri station. This move reflects India’s dedication to advancing scientific research and exploration in Antarctica while ensuring minimal environmental impact.
Additionally, discussions at the meeting included measures to prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Antarctica, highlighting the importance of biodiversity conservation in the region. The Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CEP) recommended adding 17 new areas to Antarctic Specially Protected Areas (ASPA) to safeguard the unique ecosystems of Antarctica.
ASPA designation considers factors such as scientific validity, historical significance, and natural beauty before declaring an area protected. Special permission is required to enter these protected zones, including India’s first research center, ‘Dakshin Gangotri,’ underscoring the importance of conservation efforts in Antarctica.
Looking ahead, the CEP’s recommendations will need approval from the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting’s plenary forums. Meetings have concluded, with signatory meetings scheduled for May to further deliberate on these critical conservation initiatives.
Furthermore, there is a growing call to declare Emperor Penguins, facing the threat of extinction, as a protected species. Organizations like the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) are advocating for increased conservation efforts to protect these iconic creatures.
Emperor Penguins, known for being the largest and tallest among penguins, are at risk of losing around 99% of their population by the end of the century if urgent conservation measures are not taken. Preserving these majestic species is crucial for maintaining the biodiversity and ecological balance of Antarctica.
These discussions and initiatives underscore the collective commitment of nations towards preserving Antarctica’s unique environment and wildlife for future generations. As we navigate the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, collaborative efforts like these play a vital role in safeguarding our planet’s natural heritage.
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