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The natural environment of Antarctica has unique values
for us human beings.
While pristine environment is constantly decreasing on Earth, the
Antarctic Continent, which covers approximately 1/12 of the entire
global land area, remains out of human activities. The unique natural
environment supports local wildlife and keeps the historical record
of the Earth.
The Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty
recognizes three intrinsic values of Antarctica: "... its wilderness
and aesthetic values and its value as an area for the conduct of scientific
research, in particular research essential to understanding the global
environment." |