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.
