World News for Students of English

07-02-2025 15:00

Although Antarctica is protected by an international treaty, it is facing increasing threats due to economic interests. Scientists are studying the effects of climate change and pollution, while others are conducting research that raises global concerns.

Recently, seismic surveys in the Weddell Sea uncovered an enormous oil reserve – over 500 billion barrels. This discovery could be worth trillions of dollars, making Antarctica a target for future drilling.

While the Antarctic Treaty bans oil exploration, its rules could be challenged as economic and political pressures grow. Several countries claim parts of Antarctica, which could lead to possible disputes. Environmentalists warn that human activity, including climate change, overfishing, and pollution, is harming the continent.

The treaty’s drilling ban will be reviewed in 2048, meaning it is not permanent. Many fear that economic interests will eventually override environmental protection. The need to enforce strict regulations and protect Antarctica has never been more urgent.

Difficult words: seismic (related to vibrations in the Earth), dispute (a disagreement or argument), override (to use the authority to reject or cancel something).

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