November 1, 2012
By Mera McGrew
Over the past two weeks, government leaders had an opportunity to take some of the most significant action in ocean conservation history as they met for the 31st annual meeting of the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR). With a target date of 2012 set by CCAMLR member states to establish a network of Antarctic marine protected areas (MPAs), the world has been following the meeting expecting that one of the world’s largest marine sanctuaries could be established. However, to the disappointment of many across the globe, CCAMLR 2012 came to a close today without an agreement on any marine reserves or MPAs that would ensure long-term protection and health of the Southern Ocean.
“This is a resounding disappointment for the conservation of the Ross Sea [and East Antarctica], and for science,” said Gerry Leape, Senior Officer at the Pew Environment Group. “In 2011, CCAMLR countries agreed to work together to protect and conserve the unique marine life that thrives in the ocean surrounding Antarctica. Instead, they are heading home and leaving the door wide open to unchecked commercial fishing in these special areas.”
While many are expressing strong disappointment at the failure of CCAMLR to make progress at this year’s meeting, something fairly unusual did happen — For the second time ever, CCAMLR has agreed to hold a special intercessional meeting. The meeting will take place in July 2013 in Germany. All relevant science regarding the areas where marine reserves and MPAs are being considered is expected to be presented at the intercessional gathering.
With CCAMLR rolling any major decisions through to next year, there is disappointment being felt by many, but discussions on strategies for next steps have already begun. The current situation offers an opportunity to continue to increase public awareness about the Southern Ocean and build on the momentum of campaigns seeking increased protection of the waters surrounding Antarctica. The hope is that come July, a bigger and stronger proposal will be on the table and with increased pressure from the public, CCAMLR will move forward with establishing the largest marine reserve.
Top photo: Conservationists outside the CCAMLR meeting earlier in the week holding cards in multiple languages to get their message across. Photo from Antarctic Ocean Alliance.