Play your part in mapping biodiversity
25/04/2022
Responsibility for heritage is inextricably linked with a responsibility for the natural environment. This week, we have been selected to take part in the Big Give Green Match Fund to raise funds for a new biodiversity study in Antarctica, and you can play a part in making this important research possible.
Scientists recorded the hottest Antarctic temperature on record this year and it is these rising temperatures that are putting this special wilderness under increasing pressure. We have identified a need to survey the flora and fauna at the sites we care for, to respond to the challenges of the impact of the changing climate on natural habitats and ensure that a robust Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is in place. At present, no comprehensive species inventory exists, either terrestrial or marine, and the climate is changing fast.
You can help us to partner with the British Antarctic Survey, building on decades of successful collaboration. Activities will happen in five key stages, between December 2022 and September 2023. A team will be sent in late 2022 to complete field work and data collection across multiple remote sites, followed by analysis, active monitoring and creation of environmental management plans. The Trust will then develop guidelines for conservation across its historical sites of international significance, based on these environmental and ecological findings.
This project brings together the skills of two expert organisations to establish a long-term protective plan, and a UK public engagement programme to increase knowledge of Antarctica’s special environment and ecosystems.
But, we need your help to make it happen.
Many historic expeditions and explorers, including the men of Operation Tabarin (a top secret mission to Antarctica during World War II) have followed this same route to Antarctica. Whilst I set sail on a modern ship, the 14 men of Operation Tabarin left Stanley on 2 small ships, one of which was not ice strengthened. Not only did they have the dangers of a polar expedition in front of them, but also the potential threat of enemy forces during WWII.
This film captures the 134ft HMS William Scorseby at sea in Feb 1944 (Reproduced courtesy of BAS Archives, Ref AD6/16/1944/1.1).We, like our polar ancestors, are now heading South through the furious 50°'s and eventually to the screaming 60°’s, where the winds batter the Southern Ocean, with terrifying intensity. I cannot begin to imagine what it would have been on The Scorseby, with the men of Operation Tabarin in such weather. I am hoping to experience some of the beauty and wonder of Antarctica's wildlife on my journey there. With perhaps a small bit of Antarctic adventure thrown in. Although perhaps I should be careful what I wish for!
Donate today: one donation, twice the impact
Play your part and make a donation today, and it will be doubled! One donation, twice the impact.
