Antarctic ocean protection: Europe’s role on the road to Santiago

Europe and its leaders must work closely with others to deliver protection in Antarctica- one of the most iconic and most threatened places in the world.

Recent environmental multilateral wins give hope that progress on this important issue is possible. They also show it takes determination, creativity, and leadership, as well as the realization that given the growing climate and biodiversity emergencies, failure to act can no longer be an option.

Securing China’s support for three large-scale marine protected areas in Antarctica will be critical and is a goal that Europe must prioritise together with other marine protection proponents in the run up and during an important meeting dedicated to this issue in Santiago, Chile from 19-23 June 2023.