Preparing for Emergency Response in the Remote Southern Ocean

Abstract

Baird provides the following abstract for his paper, which is reproduced here:

This paper explores the challenges associated with Emergency Response operations in the Southern Ocean. Emergency response includes search and rescue (SAR), pollution response and emergency towing service operations. The paper explores current arrangements for these operations, the challenges and opportunities and possibly identify areas for future cooperation between countries with an interest in the Southern Ocean. To understand the
challenges for emergency response services in this region the paper briefly mentions the nature of operations in the Southern Ocean including those operating to, from and in Antarctica. These include: commercial fishing, whaling and counter whaling operations, scientific surveys, tourism and adventure craft as well as Antarctic logistic operations by air and sea. Antarctic operations are subject to a number of Conventions, Protocols and operational guidelines established by international bodies as well as national governments. These help shape the nature of Southern Ocean operations.

Baird also includes the following as annexes to his paper:

A. Antarctic Treaty.
B. Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty.
C. COMNAP in brief.
D. International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO).
E. Characteristics of ice-strengthened ships and Ice Breakers.
F. Southern Ocean SAR Regions.
G. Antarctic Region (showing national program locations)