This unit focuses on the management of the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean environment under what is called the Antarctic Treaty System. The unit begins with the exploration of Antarctica and the role of science in these early years. This has meant that the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean is  as a place of peaceful use, scientific collaboration and environmental protection. 

 International treaties protect the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean by managing marine resource harvesting supporting scientific research, managing logistic support, , tourism and non-governmental activity.

 In 1991 the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties adopted the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty. This means that  all activity in Antarctica has been assessed for its potential impact on the environment. 

The unit  examines the way in which the of the Antarctic and the Southern Ocean is governed and managed examining the development of the Antarctic Treaty System. It highlights how this system supports peaceful use, scientific collaboration and environmental protection. The unit concludes by examining future challenges to the Antarctic Treaty System.