Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition

Main problem:
Destructive human influence on the antarctic region
Subproblem:
Loss of biodiversity and destruction of ecosystems
Consequence:
Water temperature increase, Need for education & awareness
Solution:
Protection of the antarctic environment through various projects, observation and reporting.

The Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) was founded in 1978 as a collaborative effort by conservation organizations from around the world to defend the integrity of Antarctic and Southern Ocean ecosystems from encroaching human activities. It is uniquely positioned to do this because of its official observer status within the Antarctic Treaty regime.

ASOC works on a wide range of Antarctic environmental issues. These can be divided into roughly three categories

Additionally, we have three high-priority focus areas:

Through our work, we seek to guarantee the highest possible level of environmental protection for the Antarctic region, whether for tiny but important krill or for entire ecosystems like the Ross Sea.
As the environmental observer within the Antarctic Treaty System, ASOC plays a special role as the representative of the global conservation community on Antarctic issues.

We present papers outlining our positions at the meetings of Antarctic governance organizations, and provide information on how to protect the Antarctic environment to Treaty parties.
We can also report back to the environmental community about progress or lack thereof on key conservation issues.
Our campaigners are experts in their subject areas and produce analytical papers and reports that are widely respected and cited. Although Antarctica is not often prominent in many people's minds, ASOC is committed to enhancing public awareness about the continent, its magnificent species, and its unique environmental challenges.

We hope you will explore our site to learn more about this stunning region - the natural heritage of all humankind.