The Energy Transition in Antarctica

Antarctica is a frontier of pristine natural beauty and a potential source of critical minerals essential for the global energy transition. As the world shifts towards renewable energy, the demand for these minerals, crucial for technologies like wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles, is skyrocketing. This unique continent presents both opportunities and challenges in balancing environmental preservation with the need for sustainable resource extraction.  The Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and subsequent agreements play a pivotal role in regulating human activities in Antarctica to ensure that any mineral exploration or extraction aligns with global standards for environmental protection and sustainable development and help stakeholders navigate the complexities of supply chain due diligence in the context of critical minerals and energy. By examining these territorial claims and the overarching policies of the Antarctic Treaty System, we gain a deeper understanding of the critical intersection between mineral resource management, environmental policy, and the global energy transition.