The project aims to triple the size of Macquarie Island Marine Park, bringing the total area of the protected area to 475,465 square kilometres.
On Sunday, the Australian government announced that it plans to create a marine park the size of Spain around remote islands off its southeastern coast.
The project aims to triple the size of Macquarie Island Marine Park, bringing the total area of the protected area to 475,465 square kilometres.
These safeguards mean the area “will be completely closed to hunting, mining and other extractive activities,” according to Australian Environment Minister Tanya Plebersek. However, current fisheries targeting Patagonian toothfish (which are carnivores) may continue.
King penguins, fur seals
Macquarie Island, located halfway between Australia and Antarctica, is home to king penguins, fur seals and the center of Antarctic science.
“Macquarie Island is an extraordinary place. It is a marvel of fauna and flora, and a perfect breeding ground for millions of seabirds, seals and penguins,” said Tanya Plibersek.
Environmental groups support the initiative, fearing the area could become a target for seabed mining and unsustainable commercial fishing.
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