Antarctic Commission fails again to agree on marine sanctuaries

Stalemate continues as some members prioritize fishing interests over conservation

Environmental groups express disappointment, calling for urgent action to protect Antarctica's marine biodiversity.

The annual meeting of the Antarctic Commission (CCAMLR) ended without an agreement on the creation of three new marine protected areas (MPAs) in Antarctica. The decision, which was made after marathon talks between 27 member nations, has been met with disappointment from environmental groups.

The proposed MPAs covered vast areas of the Weddell Sea, the Antarctic Peninsula, and the Ross Sea. They were designed to protect a range of marine life, including penguins, seals, whales, and krill.

However, a handful of countries, including Russia and China, objected to the proposals, arguing that they would restrict fishing opportunities.

Environmental groups have condemned the decision, saying that it is a major setback for the protection of Antarctica's marine environment.

"The CCAMLR has failed to live up to its mandate to protect Antarctica's marine life," said Andrea Kavanagh, director of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition. "This is a deeply disappointing outcome."

Kavanagh said that the failure to create MPAs is a threat to the entire Antarctic ecosystem. "These areas are critical for the survival of many species, including penguins, seals, and whales," she said. "Without protection, these species could be at risk."

Environmental groups are now calling on the CCAMLR to reconsider its decision and to take urgent action to protect Antarctica's marine biodiversity.

"The CCAMLR has a responsibility to protect Antarctica's marine environment," said Kavanagh. "It must not allow the interests of a few fishing nations to trump the need to protect this unique and fragile ecosystem."