Antarctica 2048: Your Law, Your Legacy

Antarctica might look like a frozen, untouched landscape, but it’s at the center of a huge global debate about our planet’s future. Right now, Antarctica is mainly used by scientists from around the world who study climate change, unique wildlife, and geology. But there’s something more: Antarctica also has rich resources, like large oil reserves, that are tempting countries to think about ways to use it for more than just research.

Antarctica’s fate will soon be up for negotiation. There’s an international treaty that keeps Antarctica reserved for science, peace, and cooperation, but it ends in 2048. With global energy demands growing and environmental issues getting more serious, the world is wondering: What’s next for Antarctica? Should it remain dedicated to research, or could it become a new frontier for oil, military bases, or other uses? This decision impacts people and wildlife around the world, and it’s a big one to get right!

Your Mission: Imagine you’re a global lawmaker in 2048, and you’re about to help decide Antarctica’s future. What law or agreement would you create to protect Antarctica while thinking about the best ways to use it?

Here’s What to Consider:

Purpose: Should Antarctica remain a place for scientific research, become a global energy hub, or serve as a wildlife sanctuary? Could it be a mix of uses?

Global Fairness: How can we make sure the resources and benefits are shared fairly among all nations?

Environmental Impact: How will your decisions protect or impact Antarctica’s fragile ecosystem and animal life?

Global Agreement: If you think oil drilling, scientific research, or any other use should be allowed, how will you make sure every country benefits fairly?

Write a short description of your proposed law or agreement, explaining why it’s the best choice for both people and the planet. Consider the short-term and long-term impacts of your decisions—could your law protect Antarctica for the next 100 years?