Summary
Australia has decided not to proceed with a proposal to construct and operate a paved runway near Davis research station in the Vestfold Hills, East Antarctica (the Davis Aerodrome Project), following careful consideration of the likely environmental impact, cost and complexity of the project. Consequently, Australia will not complete a draft Comprehensive Environmental Evaluation for circulation to Parties and the Committee for Environmental Protection. Significant progress had been made on assessing the environmental values of the Vestfold Hills and potential impacts of the proposal, informed by a range of subject matter experts and several seasons of detailed field investigations. The enhanced knowledge of the environment at the project site and surrounding region developed through these efforts will support Australia's commitment to best practice environmental stewardship in Antarctica, including through the rigorous planning, assessment and conduct of future activities, and consideration of options for ongoing and enhanced environmental protection and management in the region.