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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Comment
Dana M Bergstrom for the Conversation

I’ve spent 40 years in Antarctic research. Right now it’s facing a climate emergency so we must not put vital science on ice

Australian Antarctic Division expeditioners cruise past icebergs in an inflatable boat near Mawson Station, Antarctica
‘We must do a far better job of environmental stewardship – including paying for the scientific research so urgently needed.’ Photograph: Adam Fulton/Australian Antarctic Division/AFP/Getty Images

After decades immersed in Antarctic science, I’ve learned that physical and biological changes rarely occur smoothly. More often than not, they unfold in sharp steps. Right now, Antarctica’s climate and ecosystems are experiencing disturbing changes.

Much of this winter’s sea ice is missing. A crucial ocean current is slowing down, and glaciers and ice shelves are disintegrating.

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