CCAMLR -
The Convention on
the Conservation
of Atlantic Marine
Living Resources

CCAMLR - The Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources
Greenpeace International

The Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR) was established to sustainably manage Southern Ocean fisheries. It came into force in 1982 when the vulnerability of the Southern Ocean became too obvious to ignore. While the objectives of CCAMLR are good, it has proven to be an ineffective body to protect the Southern Ocean.

The Antarctic Treaty System

The Antarctic Treaty covers the relationship between nations and Antarctica, and outlines those activities that are, and are not, acceptable. It states that Antarctica is to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes. Forty one nations have signed the Treaty. The Treaty prohibits killing, capturing, or interfering with native mammals or birds without a permit and prohibits any mineral exploitation for a minimum of 50 years. Any development in the area must have an environmental impact assessment.

Further Information

For more, have a look at the details of the Greenpeace Antartica Tour, 1997.