Antarctic marine reserves

Antarctic marine reserves are protected areas in the Southern Ocean surrounding Antarctica, established to conserve the region’s unique and fragile ecosystems. These reserves aim to limit human activities like fishing, mining, and shipping that could harm marine life, such as whales, penguins, and krill. By creating these sanctuaries, scientists hope to ensure the health of the ocean environment, support biodiversity, and allow ecosystems to thrive unaffected by exploitation. International agreements, mainly through the Antarctic Treaty System, coordinate these conservation efforts, recognizing Antarctica’s global importance and the need for sustainable management of its pristine marine resources.