Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 31
31
Acknowledged
Antarctic fisheries face overexploitation risk from receding sea ice and insufficient protections.
Conclusion
Receding sea ice levels will make Antarctica more accessible for longer periods, enabling greater exploitation of fisheries. We are concerned that certain fisheries in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean risk being overexploited, disrupting the marine food web, and damaging global ocean health. Krill depletion affects species populations across ecosystems and influences ocean circulation and the carbon cycle, which can have broader climate impacts. Stronger protections under the Antarctic Treaty are essential to safeguard this vital region and prevent wider environmental consequences. (Conclusion, Paragraph 157)
Government Response Summary
The government partially accepts the conclusion regarding concerns about overexploited fisheries and the need for stronger protections, without specifying reasons for partial acceptance or detailing any specific actions.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
. The Government partially accepts this recommendation.