The Antarctic Treaty system and its environmental aspects

The protection of the Antarctic environment raises several issues. First, Antarctic resources must be preserved. Secondly, marine pollution may affect the Antarctic marine areas. Finally, the presence of a legal regime, such as the Antarctic Treaty system, does not ensure in itself that the protection of the environment in this area is carried out by States other than parties to the Antarctic Treaty. In fact, third States may wish to apply different international norms to this area. Clearly, a balance between different legal sources is required.