22 April, 2025 News stories

This Earth Day (22 April 2025) the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is spotlighting a new book that showcases the latest scientific insights from the Antarctic. Antarctica and the Earth System, which was co-edited by oceanographer Prof Mike Meredith, brings together leading experts to explore how Antarctica influences – and is influenced by – global environmental change.

Drawing on the latest available research, the book examines a wide range of topics including climate dynamics, ecosystem resilience, and the future of Antarctic research in a warming world. From ocean circulation and ice sheet stability to biodiversity and policy, the book provides a comprehensive but accessible overview of Antarctica’s central role in the Earth system.

It also highlights how changes in the polar regions can have far-reaching effects, from rising sea levels to shifts in global weather patterns, making Antarctic science essential to understanding and tackling climate change.

The cover of a book
The book presents a state-of-the-art overview of the role that Antarctica and the Southern Ocean play as integral parts of the Earth System.

The book reiterates the importance of international collaboration and long-term observations, and highlights areas where more focus is needed.

“Antarctica might seem distant, but its impact is global,” says Prof Meredith. “This book reflects the collective effort of scientists working to understand and protect this unique part of our planet – making Earth Day the ideal time to share it with the world.”

Antarctica and the Earth System is available open-access here or available now from Routledge.