Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine and Living Resources

General Information

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What is it about?

This Convention aims to protect Antarctic marine living resources against the dangers of over exploitation and in particular the over capture of krill, which would have a serious effect on other marine life feeding on krill. In order to guarantee a rational usage of resources, this instrument requires that captures and related activities assure the renewal of species and the preservation of the food chain. A Commission, headquartered in Hobert, Tasmania, has been established to ensure the implementation of the present Convention. A Scientific Committee provides a forum for consultation and co-operation concerning the collection, study and exchange of information with respect to the marine living resources to which the Convention applies. Inspectors and observers undertake the monitoring of catches.

Why is it relevant?

This 1980 Convention preserves the marine life in the Antarctic and establishes the rational usage of its natural resources. The obligatory provisions are nevertheless limited in nature, and compliance rests largely upon the good faith of State parties.

Additional Information

Ratifying this instrument obliges State parties to conform to the principles and objectives of the Treaty of the Antarctic (Washington, 1 December 1959).

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