Code of Conduct for Activity within Terrestrial Geothermal Environments in Antarctica Popular

Code of Conduct for Activity within Terrestrial Geothermal Environments in Antarctica 

ATCM XXXIX and CEP XIX 2016, Santiago, Chile

pdf Attachment 18 (153 KB) to pdf Working Paper 23 (143 KB)

Summary:

This SCAR Code of Conduct provides guidance when planning or undertaking field activities within terrestrial geothermal environments. It was prepared following discussions held at the August 2014 Auckland Workshop which focused on the need to develop guidelines for working in terrestrial geothermal areas in Antarctica (see ATCM XXXVIII (2015) IP024 and ATCM XXXVIII (2015) WP035) and has been finalised through broad consultation, including with the Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs (COMNAP). The SCAR Environmental Code of Conduct for Terrestrial Scientific Research in Antarctica (2009) continues to provide guidance on practical measures to minimize impacts by scientists undertaking fieldwork in terrestrial environments, generally applicable across all of Antarctica. This Code of Conduct for activities within terrestrial geothermal environments was developed in recognition of a specific need for guidelines for operations and scientific activities beyond those generally applicable guidelines, since terrestrial geothermal environments in Antarctica represent a unique case where more specific and customized guidance is needed because safeguarding the values of these sites requires measures that extend beyond those required in most areas in which activities are undertaken. The Code of Conduct will be updated and refined as new scientific results and environmental impact reports become available from future research in terrestrial geothermal environments.