Antarctic marine protection gains momentum through industry collaboration

In January 2026, the Sustainable Markets Initiative launched the Ocean Stewardship Initiative to mobilise private-sector leadership in ocean conservation, with an initial focus on establishing a large-scale Marine Protected Area in the Antarctic Peninsula region under CCAMLR. Announced following the entry into force of the High Seas Treaty, the initiative aims to align marine protection with science-based fisheries management and strengthen private-sector engagement in ocean governance.

The proposed MPA is designed to operate alongside a modern krill fishery management framework that enhances ecosystem monitoring and distributes fishing activity across regulated open areas. This integrated approach recognises that lasting conservation outcomes depend on transparent, accountable fisheries management grounded in science.

The Ocean Stewardship Initiative aimed at translating global ocean protection commitments into practical action.

Developed in partnership with Aker QRILL Company, with advisory input from the Marine Stewardship Council, the initiative underscores the role of industry in constructive, science-led governance. By advancing practical solutions in Antarctica, the partners seek to establish a transferable model for private-sector participation in marine protection and sustainable fisheries management globally.

Stewardship under CCAMLR

The proposal builds on decades of ecosystem-based management under CCAMLR. Antarctic krill fisheries operate within strict precautionary catch limits and are subject to continuous scientific monitoring. The initiative reinforces the principle that effective marine protection and responsible fisheries are mutually reinforcing objectives. By aligning marine protection with science-based krill management, the initiative highlights how responsible industry participation can support both biodiversity conservation and sustainable use.

ARK members have long implemented measures aligned with these goals. Voluntary Restricted Zones around key penguin breeding colonies cover approximately 74,000 square kilometres, limiting fishing activity in sensitive nearshore areas. ARK vessels operate with 100% independent observer coverage and real-time satellite monitoring. Current harvesting remains below 1% of the estimated 63 million metric tonnes of krill biomass. Together with sustained investment in scientific research and ecosystem monitoring, these actions demonstrate that robust protection measures and well-managed fisheries advance in parallel under CCAMLR.