Law of the Sea Treaty Heads Arctic Challenges for U.S.
The melting polar icecap is presenting both opportunities and challenges for the United States and other Arctic nations, as well as other nations with interests in the region. Arctic ice cover has declined consistently over the past few decades. Increased accessibility, dubbed an “emerging maritime frontier” by U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Robert J. Papp, Jr., presents a host of opportunities for oil and gas development, fishing, tourism, and transportation. It also creates myriad challenges related to Arctic governance, marine safety, indigenous populations, scientific research, and environmental stewardship. This article reviews the state of play regarding claims to the Arctic and the U.S.
Legislation to Protect Canada's Arctic Waters
To better protect Canadian Arctic waters from ship-source pollution, Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird, announced that Bill C-3, an Act to amend the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act, came into force on August 1, 2009. The amended Act also allows Canada to exercise greater control over these waters. "The passage of this legislative amendment is welcome news. Our government has taken action to protect the fragile marine environment in the North, and re-affirm our commitment to its preservation," said Baird. The updated Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act strengthens Canada's ability to guard against pollution from ships in an expanded area.
CA Protects Sovereignty & Safeguards Arctic
Canada's Transport Minister, John Baird, introduced legislation in the House of Commons on Jan. 28 to enhance Canada's sovereignty over Arctic waters and protect them from pollution. This coverage will give Canada greater and more effective control over marine activity in the Canadian Arctic while enhancing environmental protection in Canada's North. This marks an important step forward in the federal government's integrated Northern Strategy. "Our government is taking action to promote economic development while demanding environmental responsibility in Canada's North," said Minister Baird. "Our government will do all we can to protect Canada's Arctic heritage and sovereignty.
Canada Further Protects Arctic Waters
Canada’s Transport Minister, John Baird, today introduced legislation in the House of Commons to enhance Canada’s sovereignty over Arctic waters and protect them from pollution. This coverage will give Canada greater and more effective control over marine activity in the Canadian Arctic while enhancing environmental protection in Canada's North. This marks an important step forward in the federal government's integrated Northern Strategy. “Our government is committed to promoting economic development while demanding environmental responsibility in Canada’s North,” said Minister Baird. “Our government will do all we can to protect Canada's Arctic heritage and sovereignty.
