Mineral Activities and Environmental Issues in Antarctica

• Main Author: Carson, Nicholas
• Format: Other/Unknown Material
• Language: English
• Published: 2008
• Subjects: Antarctic; The Antarctic; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10092/14200

Mineral exploration in Antarctica is a controversial topic due the environmental impact that mining creates. All human activities are governed in Antarctica by the Antarctic Treaty which states that the continent is devoted to peace and science (Antarctic Treaty, 1959). Geologically, the continent is the least explored in the world (Willan et al, 1990) and may hold many resources within. The remote ice covered continent has prevented the exploration and exploitation of resources, but now with improving technology the possibility of the continent being opened up to activity is increasing. The global concern shifts to a more environmental friendly conception, as the impacts of human are being noticed around the world. Therefore, with the possibility of mineral activity in the future, we need to secure the future of the Antarctic and its environment. Can we protect this fragile environment and would is be economic for mining companies to investigate and develop mining activities.