Jurisdiction--Territorial Waters--Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act

On June 17, 1970, Canada passed the Arctic Waters Pollution Prevention Act which asserts jurisdiction over Arctic waters 100 miles off her coasts for the purpose of pollution prevention regulation. The Act proscribes any discharge of waste into Arctic waters, and prohibits navigation in certain "shipping safety control zones" in Arctic waters unless regulations pertaining to structural, equipment, navigational aid, cargo, and personnel qualification standards are met. Given the conflict between the traditional freedom of the seas and the seriousness of the ocean pollution problem, the Canadian action is likely to provoke much controversy.