China Sets Out a New Posture on Environmental Protection in Antarctica

China is adopting new environmental measures for its rising activities in Antarctica. Last week, the country’s top legislature, the National People’s Congress (NPC), passed a law on Antarctic activities and environmental protection. The law has 59 articles and seeks to streamline Chinese missions in Antarctica.

A major emphasis of the law is on environmental protection. Researchers carrying out Chinese scientific work in Antarctica will now be required to submit environmental impact assessments (EIAs) for projects in the region. The EIAs should demonstrate protection for local animals and plants, a plan for waste disposal as well as measures to prevent marine pollution.

In adopting the law, the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC said the framework fulfills China’s obligations under the 1959 Antarctic Treaty. While China acceded to the Antarctic Treaty in 1983, it lacked a domestic law to guide its activities in the region. As a matter of common practice, most parties under the Antarctic Treaty system adopt a national law to ensure compliance with the international framework.

The adoption of the law coincided with the start of China’s 43rd Antarctic expedition, which set sail on Saturday from Nanshan Port in Sanya, Hainan Province. The expedition involves the Xuelong and Xuelong 2 research icebreakers as well as the oceanographic research vessel Dayang. Over 600 researchers and engineers are participating in the five-month-long mission.

This story was originally published by The Maritime Executive. Read the full story at The Maritime Executive →