On Sunday (June 4), the Australian government announced that Australia 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 precautions mean that the area will be “Completely closed to hunting, mining and other extractive activities”According to Australian Environment Minister Tanya Plibersk.
However, current fisheries targeting Patagonian toothfish (which are carnivores) may continue.
“a marvel of animals and plants”
Macquarie Island, located halfway between Australia and Antarctica, is home to king penguins, fur seals and the center of Antarctic science.
“Maquarie Island is an exceptional place. It is a marvel of flora and fauna, and is a perfect breeding ground for millions of seabirds, seals and penguins.”to Tanya Plebersek in Vanguard.
Environmental groups support the initiative, fearing the area could become a target for seabed mining and unsustainable commercial fishing.
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