The Antarctic Treaty
The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 and since then many improvements have been added as people learn more about Antarctica and the impact that humans have on it's environment.
Many nations laid claims to owning parts of Antarctica due to geographical proximity and/or having involvment in it's exploration. However, these claims are not recognised.
Antarctica is governed by the agreements set out in the Antarctic treaty. Twelve nations signed the original treaty and many other nations have joined (up to 44 nations).
The treaty has made the Antarctic an area of peaceful scientific research.
One of the greatest amendments was signed in 1991 (the Madrid Protocol) which bans mining for 50 years, establishes rules for removal of waste, and sets guidelines for tourism and protection of flora and fauna.
Many nations laid claims to owning parts of Antarctica due to geographical proximity and/or having involvment in it's exploration. However, these claims are not recognised.
Antarctica is governed by the agreements set out in the Antarctic treaty. Twelve nations signed the original treaty and many other nations have joined (up to 44 nations).
The treaty has made the Antarctic an area of peaceful scientific research.
One of the greatest amendments was signed in 1991 (the Madrid Protocol) which bans mining for 50 years, establishes rules for removal of waste, and sets guidelines for tourism and protection of flora and fauna.