Yearbook of International Environmental Law Highlights Importance of Strategic Environmental Assessment in Antarctica

Protecting the Fragile and Unique Environment of Antarctica

Experts emphasize the crucial role of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) in protecting the fragile and unique environment of Antarctica, as published in a comprehensive review in the Yearbook of International Environmental Law.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for Implementing SEA in Antarctica

The article highlights the challenges and opportunities ahead for implementing SEA in Antarctica. The authors note that effective SEA requires a thorough understanding of the complex relationships between human activities, environmental impacts, and governance arrangements in the Antarctic region.

Key Studies Highlight Importance of Strategic Thinking and Long-term Planning

Several key studies are cited in the review, including:

Roura and Hemmings (2011), which highlights the importance of strategic thinking and long-term planning for sustainable development in Antarctica.
Runhaar and Driessen (2007), which emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and participatory approach to SEA in the region.

Role of Scenario Planning and Geographic Information Systems

The authors also draw attention to the role of scenario planning, as described by Schoemaker (1995), which can help policymakers anticipate and prepare for potential future challenges and opportunities. The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is also highlighted as a valuable tool for assessing the environmental impacts of human activities on Antarctica’s unique wilderness areas.

Conclusion: SEA Essential for Long-term Conservation

The review concludes that SEA is essential for ensuring the long-term conservation of Antarctica’s natural environment, while also supporting sustainable development in the region. By adopting a strategic and integrated approach to environmental assessment, policymakers can help safeguard the Antarctic environment for future generations.

Key Studies Cited:

Rotmans, J., et al. (1998). Methods for IA: The challenges and opportunities ahead.
Roura, R. M., & Hemmings, A. D. (2011). Realising strategic environmental assessment in Antarctica.
Runhaar, H. A. C., & Driessen, P. P. J. (2007). What makes strategic environmental assessment successful environmental assessment?
Sadler B. & Verheem R. (1996). Strategic environmental assessment: status, challenges and future directions.

Terauds, A., et al. (2012). Conservation biogeography of the Antarctic.
Tin, T., et al. (2013) Setting the scene: Human activities, environmental impacts and governance arrangements in Antarctica.
UK (2009). Pilot study on identifying important marine areas for conservation around the South Orkney Islands.

For Further Reading:

Yearbook of International Environmental Law, Volume 20(1), 41–87
Antarctic Futures: Human Engagement with the Antarctic Environment, edited by T. Tin, D. Liggett, P. T. Maher & M. Lamers.