The Politics Of Mineral Resource Development In Antarctica

Originally published in 1984. Antarctica can no longer be considered merely a highly specialized area of interest to a relative handful of explorers and scientists. World political leaders who, in an era of resource politics, are looking to potential sources of supplies of living and non-living resources. Antarctica may prove to be a source of such supplies. In this volume, Dr. Westermeyer’s study of the options available for a mineral regime and probable costs comes at an opportune time, helping participants understand the issues and find acceptable solutions.

While environmental protection has been a focus of decision-making under the Antarctic Treaty, the rules adopted did not engender an effective protection regime. This book examines the international politics of environmental protection in the Antarctic. It analyses recent events, including the demise of the Antarctic Minerals Convention and the negotiation of the Madrid Protocol which hold out the hope of much improved protection of the fragile Antarctic environment. This study also considers what political lessons the Antarctic experience might have for broader concerns in international environmental relations.

Chapters include an analysis of the feasibility with comparison to the arctic experience at the Black Angel, Polaris and Lupin mines; the strategic role of platinum as a rationale for platinum mining in Antarctica; the future of Antarctic mineral resources; establishing an Antarctic mineral resource inventory.

An examination of marine pollution relative to questions of national sovereignty and pollution control. Also management of Antarctic resources is examined from legal, political, economic, environmental and scientific perspectives. Gives an up to date (1981) review of the political complexities of the Antarctic and the weaknesses of the region's system of governance under the Antarctic treaty.

Introduction -- The current regime and United States policy for Antarctica -- The Convention on the Regulation of Antarctic mineral resource activities -- Ratification considerations -- The resource potential of Antarctica -- Environmental considerations -- Technology and economic considerations for oil development -- Technology and economic considerations for hard minerals development -- Implementation options.