Antarctic Conference Debates New Marine Protected Areas

Nations gather in Hobart to address the urgent threat to the Southern Ocean's fragile ecosystem.

The Antarctic and Southern Ocean are experiencing unprecedented temperature anomalies and marine heatwaves, leading to a rapid decline in sea ice.
The Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) urges immediate action from the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
Proposals include establishing four new marine protected areas in East Antarctica, the Weddell Sea, and around the Antarctic Peninsula.
China and Russia's opposition has previously stalled progress, as unanimous agreement from all 27 member states is required.
Only about 8% of the world's oceans are currently protected, far short of the 30% target set for 2030.