Crossing the entire Antarctic landmass on foot; it is quite an ambitious goal. Polar explorer Robert Swan nevertheless achieved this feat on January 10th, 2023. Swan then completed the final leg of his expedition, that was set in motion 35 years ago to advocate for the long-term protection of Antarctica. NTT DATA is the primary sponsor of this expedition, and we are proud to share his story.
NTT DATA Business Solutions
Supporting Sustainability: NTT DATA Sponsors Polar Pioneer Expedition
Robert Swan, Polar Explorer and Sustainability Advocate
The Undaunted Story
Robert Swan is the first person in history to walk to South and North poles. On January 10th, 2023, he covered the final miles during his Undaunted Expedition. In this, he set the goal of walking the last miles of a total of 1,500 across the entire breadth of Antarctica. A distance that he has gradually covered over a span of 35 years. Two previous attempts for the final leg of his expedition ended due to injuries. However, despite the setbacks, Swan remained undaunted. And he even completed his last mission – that started on December 26, 2022 – 4 days earlier than planned.
On his expeditions, Robert Swan demonstrated the viability of renewable energy technologies and sustainable practices in the planet’s most inhospitable environment. This included the use of generators powered by renewable biofuels as well as clothing and equipment made from recycled materials. Now that his expedition has ended, he has proven that these solutions work. And since they work in the icy cold of Antarctica, they can work anywhere!
Why Antarctica Matters
Antarctica is a frozen desert – for many millennia minimal snow and ice crystals have accumulated here, so that 98 percent of the content is covered in ice over 1 mile thick on an average. The Antarctica has locked 60 to 70 percent of the Earth’s total fresh water in its ice sheet. If it melts, our world will experience about 60 meters of sea-level rise. “Antarctica is the last true wilderness on the surface of our planet, yet even this incredibly remote location is experiencing devastating effects from climate change with catastrophic implications for us all”, said Robert Swan, who also calls Antarctica the “ground zero in the fight against climate change”.
The Antarctic Treaty and 2041 Foundation
Robert Swan’s first walk to the South Pole inspired him to create the 2041 Foundation. The organization’s name refers to the year when the Antarctic Treaty, which is subject to review in the year 2041. Thus, the foundations mission is to engage businesses and communities on climate science, personal leadership, and the promotion of sustainable practices. They do this by informing and inspiring the next generation of leaders to protect polar regions and preserve Antarctica as the last great wilderness on Earth. The foundation also advocates for sustainable public policies, personal lifestyles, business practices and innovative technologies.
Realizing a Sustainable Future
Sustainability is a top priority for NTT DATA’s leadership, clients and employees alike. Rob Swan’s example is inspiring as NTT DATA continues our pursuit of ambitious company targets and drives research into innovative sustainability solutions.
Bob Pryor, CEO at NTT DATA Services
NTT DATA Sponsors Antarctic Expedition
NTT DATA Sponsors Antarctic Expedition for Climate Change Awareness
NTT DATA announced its sponsorship in an Oct. 20 news release. The company is supporting Robert Swan’s Undaunted expedition based on the company’s vision to realize a sustainable future. In November, NTT DATA launched a web-based app and a podcast series to provide information on Swan’s expedition and encourage individuals and organizations to commit to their own journeys toward sustainability. This web app includes Robert Swan’s bio and summaries of his expeditions, tips for starting a personal journey towards sustainability and much more information.
NTT DATA is proud to be sponsor of the expedition to promote sustainability and protect Antarctica as well as applauds the 2041 Foundation for its efforts to inform and inspire future generations of environmental champions who will provide leadership and advocacy when the Antarctic Treaty becomes subject to review in the year 2041.
What Can You Do?
In the year 2041, the fate of Antarctica will be decided. Join us for the remaining 20 years to ensure we have the sense to leave one place on Earth untouched. One thing Robert Swan’s Undaunted expedition demonstrates is that every person and organization can make a constructive contribution and has a role in fighting climate change. Even small actions add up to significant milestones on the world’s collective journey to sustainability.
Get started now! Learn more about free educational materials for the next generation and how you can start the journey – whether individually or at an enterprise level.
What NTT DATA Business Solutions Is Doing for More Sustainability
Sustainability
Technology and innovation help to master the ecological, economic and social challenges of our time and contribute to more sustainable business.
Corporate Social Responsibility
Corporate social responsibility and sustainability are pillars of our culture. Therefore we care for our environment, customers, and employees.