This Christmas, scientists from the University of Portsmouth will embark on an expedition to investigate the effects of tourism and climate change in Antarctica.
Living aboard HMS Protector, the Royal Navy's icebreaker, they will spend five weeks immersed in the freezing waters of the Southern Ocean.
The mission, which runs throughout November and December, aims to gather crucial data on pollution from increased tourism and the far-reaching impacts of climate change on this fragile environment.
Two experts from the University of Portsmouth will be participating in this critical research, they will be leaving for their trip on the 15th November.
I'm thrilled to undertake fieldwork where I won't have to worry about scorpions under my bed or fight wasps to take a shower.
Dr Adele Julier, Senior lecturer at the University of Portsmouth
Deciphering weather patterns of the past
Dr Adele Julier , a senior lecturer and palaeoecologist, will focus on understanding wind and weather patterns through modern pollen collection techniques. Dr Julier's work involves using pollen, charcoal, and other particles from sediments to decipher the environmental conditions of the past. By analysing pollen carried to Antarctica by the wind, she aims to calibrate historical climate data and track shifts in weather patterns.
Dr Julier, who has spent over a decade studying pollen in tropical climates, is excited about this colder adventure: "I'm thrilled to undertake fieldwork where I won't have to worry about scorpions under my bed or fight wasps to take a shower!" She is especially looking forward to seeing the Adélie penguins, native to Antarctica.
Her three-pronged approach to collecting pollen includes using microscope slides to catch daily pollen, artificial pollen traps to collect weekly samples, and natural moss banks that serve as long-term pollen traps. Her research will help us better understand the ongoing climate changes in the region.
It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and will contribute to critical research that could shape the future of tourism in Antarctica.
Dr Keiron Roberts, Senior lecturer in sustainability and the built environment, and member of the Revolution Plastics Institute
Environmental impact of tourism
Dr Keiron Roberts , a senior lecturer in sustainability and the built environment, and a member of the Revolution Plastics Institute , will be investigating the environmental impact of tourism. With over 100,00 tourists visiting Antarctica during the 2023-24 season, the region is experiencing unprecedented human activity, which could have far-reaching consequences on the ecosystem.
Dr Roberts, who trained as an oceanographer, will be collecting surface water samples to measure nutrient levels, metals, and antimicrobial resistance - indicators of human pollution. He also plans to use a plankton trawl net to capture microplastics and a sediment grab to assess long-term environmental changes.
Additionally, Dr Roberts will fly drones to survey the coastline for litter in hard-to-reach areas, helping build a comprehensive picture of the impact tourism has on this delicate ecosystem.
"This trip allows me to return to my roots in oceanography while incorporating my passion for sustainability", Dr Roberts said. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and will contribute to critical research that could shape the future of tourism in Antarctica."
This research trip by University of Portsmouth scientists could provide valuable insights into both climate change and the sustainability of tourism in one of the world's most pristine and delicate environments.
HMS Protector is equipped with everything needed to assist the scientists with their research projects. The ship has a full sonar suite as well as a small survey boat equipped with a multi-beam echo sounding system that can survey the sea floor at shallow depths, close to calving glacier margins. High tech-equipment is used to collect data quickly and accurately in extreme conditions.
HMS Protector's Commanding Officer, Captain Tom Weaver, said: "HMS Protector's mission in Antarctica provides valuable opportunities for scientists to access the world's most important natural laboratory.
"Last year we embarked two scientists from the University of Portsmouth to research water pollution and glacier change in Antarctica and I'm delighted that during this Austral summer season the Royal Navy can continue to support the University of Portsmouth and their environmental research."
