The Antarctic Wildlife Research Fund (AWR) is focused on supporting Antarctic research that contributes to the sustainable management of marine resources. Although not explicitly stated, its mission revolves around enhancing understanding, conservation efforts, and management practices in relation to Antarctic krill fisheries, within the context of the ecosystem-based management approach advocated by the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).
The Antarctic Wildlife Research Fund provides grants to projects that align with its scientific research plan, developed in consultation with the Science Advisory Group. Grants support research aimed at: contributing to the development of a feedback management system for the krill fishery, designing scientific reference areas for monitoring ecosystem changes, and developing methods for early warning of ecological shifts. The fund specifically supports field-based krill fishery and ecology studies, predator studies, and desk-based modeling and management studies. The overarching goal is to support CCAMLR's precautionary management of the krill fishery by filling knowledge gaps and informing decision-making processes regarding fishery-induced ecosystem changes. The grant aims for collaborative research, encourages cost-sharing, and focuses on producing science that aids in the sustainable management of the Antarctic krill fishery. With $150,000 available for funding, proposals are expected to align with these aims for consideration.