21. A Continent for Science, A Continent for peace: The Antarctic Treaty System

Antarctic Treaty System explained—why it matters today. Season 3 of South Pole begins with a deep, accessible guide to the Antarctic Treaty System: the international agreement that keeps Antarctica demilitarized, dedicated to peace, science, and environmental protection. Political and environmental philosopher Dr. Alejandra Mancilla (University of Oslo) traces how the treaty emerged from overlapping territorial claims and Cold War tensions—and how it evolved into today’s consultative vs. non-consultative membership model, where decision-making is tied to “substantial scientific research” and consensus rules shape outcomes. We unpack the 1991 Environmental Protocol, the ban on mineral extraction through 2048, and the big debates now facing Antarctic governance: tourism, legitimacy, climate change, and who gets to decide Antarctica’s future. Episode Guest: Dr. Alejandra Mancilla Visit Dr. Mancilla’s website Find Dr. Mancilla’s article here Browse Dr. Mancilla’s publications on Google Scholar Learn more about the Antarctic Treaty here South Pole: What if Antarctica had Legal Personhood? Read Antarctic journalist Tiara Walter’s work  Episode Transcript  and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia Hosted, produced and edited by Clark Marchese  Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong.  Theme music by Nela Ruiz Find some more Pine Forest Media podcasts below Listen to Oceanography on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Listen to Plastic Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Listen to Something in the Water on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.