Update on the Stage 1 Special Area for Scientific Study at Pine Island Glacier

The Pine Island Glacier Special Area for Scientific Study (SASS) was designated in 2019 under the provisions of CM 24-04, and updated in 2021 and 2023. This precautionary protection aimed to allow for research to be undertaken in the absence of other human activities, recognising the potential scientific importance of marine habitats exposed by glacial retreat. Pine Island Glacier has continued to undergo rapid change, and its area was measured at 2,951 km² in May 2025. While this current extent remains lower than the 2017 baseline, the area no longer meets the criteria for SASS designation set out in CM 24-04. The current Stage 1 designation will therefore expire in August 2025. The establishment of Special Areas for Scientific Study under CM 24-04 remains an important tool for precautionary, short-term protection of newly-exposed marine areas, to allow for scientific research to be undertaken if practicable.