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Environmental protection

As well as conducting globally important science, BAS fulfills its stewardship role by working to the highest environmental standards in all its operations and by playing a leading role in the Antarctic Treaty – the world’s most successful international agreement.

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Antarctic Act (1994)

RRS Ernest Shackleton mess room

Energy use and carbon management

This small refuge hut was built in 1956 and occupied briefly on several occasions including the 1957 winter. It was removed during the 1995-96 season to the Falkland Islands Museum in Stanley

Environmental policy and management

Crossing Drake's Passage. Waves crashing over the bow of the RRS Ernest Shackleton during a Force 12 storm.

Environmental protocol

The Protocol sets a framework for the comprehensive protection of the Antarctic environment

Champsocephalus gunnari - Mackerel Icefish. They can grow to over half a metre in length and feed predominantly on krill. They are widespread over the continental shelf of South Georgia and Shag Rocks.

Fishing

Hepatic-rich community around an active fumarole emitting steam on rim of crater at ca 100 m alt. South Sandwich Is., Bellingshausen I., Basilisk Peak.

Framework for Environmental Protection

Lichen Usnea antarctica on stones amongst mosses (Chorisodontium aciphyllum, green, and Andreaea depressinervis, brown)

International Agreements for conservation of fauna and flora

Gentoo Penguin with sea weed in its bill close to Port Lockroy on the Antarctic Peninsula.

Minimising waste and pollution in Antarctica

Tellus South West map of the magnetic properties of the rocks below Devon and Cornwall. Experts will use this data to assess the extent and value of mineral deposits below ground (Credit: Tellus South West)

Mining

Outside view of Scott's Hut, built for the 1910-1913 Terra Nova expedition to the South Pole.

Special areas and historic sites of Antarctica

The Antarctic Treaty designated sites

Light-Mantled Sooty Albatross (Phoebetria palpebrata) on a nest overlooking Johnson Cove at the end of Molly Ridge, Bird Island, South Georgia

Wildlife and plants

Learn more about Antarctica's animals