About WWF

WWF is one of the world’s largest and most experienced independent conservation organisations, with over 5 million supporters and a global network active in more than 100 countries. 

WWF in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean

For decades WWF has worked to conserve the natural wonders of the Antarctic, and millions of whales, penguins and albatross that live there.

Working in partnership, WWF helped establish the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary and two of the world’s largest marine protected areas – the Heard and McDonald Island Marine Reserve, and the Macquarie Island Marine Reserve. WWF also helped secure a ban on mining under the Antarctic Treaty Environment Protocol, promote sustainable fisheries and substantially reduce illegal fishing across the Southern Ocean.

WWF-Australia’s current work in the Antarctic focuses on building a network of marine protected areas, new initiatives to protect wildlife such as whales and seabirds, securing sustainable fisheries management, and responding to the challenges of climate change.