| Subject | Confirming ongoing commitment to the prohibition on Antarctic mineral resource activities, other than for scientific research; support for the Antarctic Mining Ban |
| Status |
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| Category |
Environmental protection
Mineral resources
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| Topics |
- Environment Protocol
- Mineral exploration
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| Attachments |
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Confirming ongoing commitment to the prohibition on Antarctic mineral resource activities, other than for scientific research; support for the Antarctic Mining Ban
The Representatives,
Recognising that the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty (“the Protocol”), which was signed twenty-five years ago, is an essential element of current efforts to protect the Antarctic environment;
Noting that Article 7 of the Protocol provides that in the Antarctic Treaty area any activity relating to mineral resources, other than scientific research, shall be prohibited;
Taking into account that outside the Antarctic Treaty system there are many in the public and media who incorrectly believe that the Protocol expires in 2048;
Recalling that in accordance with its Article 25, the Protocol does not expire in 2048;
Recalling that in paragraph 5 of the Washington Ministerial Declaration on the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Antarctic Treaty the Consultative Parties reaffirmed their commitment to Article 7 of the Protocol;
Recommend that their Governments:
1. acknowledge the benefits to the Antarctic environment and dependent and associated ecosystems that have resulted from the prohibition on activities relating to mineral resources, other than scientific research, under Article 7 of the Protocol;
2. reaffirm their commitment to Article 7 of the Protocol; and
3. declare their firm commitment to retain and continue to implement this provision as a matter of highest priority to achieve the comprehensive protection of the Antarctic environment and dependent and associated ecosystems.
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| Relevant Final Report paragraph | 110 |