The Antarctic Treaty was passed in 1961. Nearly 50 countries have signed it and agree to protect Antarctica from pollution, mining and drilling for oil until at least 2048. So far this has stopped any exploitation of the great mineral wealth found in the area.
There is some economic activity in Antarctica, such as tourism. However, there is a risk to habitats and wildlife and spillage from ships. However, the treaty limits the number of tourists that can visit at a time.
It can be shown therefore, that international treaties can be used to manage a cold environment and protect it from the negative effects of economic development.
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