Antarctic Treaty

Antarctica has been terra incognita for most of Earth’s history. The actual discovery of the continent started about 200 years ago. During two centuries mankind succeeded in exploring and gaining access to its remote regions. An impressive international treaty on its use for peaceful purposes and protection has developed since the mid-20th century.

Even though there is no Antarctic government, Antarctica does have its own administrative organisation. The Antarctic Treaty laid down that the Consultative Parties must convene at regular intervals for the purpose of information exchange and to consult on regulations concerning Antarctica.

Germany – as well as the other parties to the Treaty - implemented the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty into national law, which is why there is a German Act Implementing the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty (AIEP). The AIEP identifies the German Environment Agency as the national competent authority.

The protection of the Antarctic is founded on the Antarctic Treaty, which manifests the intention to use the Antarctic only for peaceful purposes for all time. It also lays the groundwork for important follow-up agreements.

The German permitting procedure for activities in the Antarctic is regulated by a separate law, the Act Implementing the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty (AIEP). Because of their potential impacts on the Antarctic continent, all planned activities are subject to a review and assessment.

Most of UBA's work with regard to the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty and the Antarctic Treaty itself is carried out in Dessau-Roßlau, but sometimes UBA staff members take part in inspections and observer missions in the Antarctic.

Despite its remote location, it can become almost busy in the Antarctic in some places and at certain times: research, tourism and logistics support for activities all leave their footprint. It is not always necessary to be present in person to preserve the uniqueness of the Antarctic. A lot of work of administrative nature in particular is done outside the Treaty territory.

From time to time one hears the question to whom the Antarctic actually belongs to. The answer is simple: since there is no indigenous population in the Antarctic, it is a world heritage and belongs to everyone and to nobody in particular! The Antarctic Treaty System regulates both of these aspects.