Unpack the latest topics in polar and climate science, with the experts.
Our planet is changing at a rate and scale unlike anything seen in human history – and Earth’s frozen places are the front line. Beyond the Ice provides topical commentary and insights from the science, engineering and operations teams at British Antarctic Survey.
Why polar science is a secret strength in international relations
How does international collaboration in Antarctica fit into global diplomacy? In an unstable world, polar science flies the flag for the UK and strengthens relationships between nations.
Can art help communicate climate science?
Artist Rowan Huntley and British Antarctic Survey Geochemist Dr Jo Johnson have been working together to translate polar science into art.
Why is everyone talking about geoengineering?
Geoengineering is the hot topic in climate science debate. It is essential for polar scientists to help assess these ideas with their expert knowledge, argues Professor Dame Jane Francis.
How do we actually know Antarctica is melting? Mass balance explained
When news broke that Antarctica had gained ice mass between 2021 and 2023, it sparked debate across comment sections worldwide. How could the continent be gaining ice when we're constantly told it's melting?
Are Emperor penguins heading for extinction?
New research suggests there's been a shocking 22% drop in the Emperor penguin population in a region of Antarctica over just 15 years. That's more than double previous estimates, and outpacing even the most pessimistic projections.
Discovering a hole in the ozone layer: 40 years later
40 years ago, British Antarctic Survey scientists found a hole in Earth's ozone layer. What can we learn from this story of discovery and international political action?
Lows in the Arctic: the least sea ice, ever?
In February 2025, there was less sea ice on Earth than ever recorded. How is sea ice loss connected to climate change? Will the Arctic be ice free by summer 2100?
How are the LA wildfires linked to climate change?
How did weather and climate change drive the LA wildfires in 2025? Understand the mechanics behind this, and what Antarctic ice cores tell us about historic wildfire patterns.
Why does melting Arctic ice matter?
Fresh off scientific fieldwork in the Arctic, marine geophysicist Dr Kelly Hogan and marine biogeochemist Professor Kate Hendry explain what the consequences of a melting Arctic.
When scientists talk about the climate
This edition of Beyond the Ice is made up of highlights from a round-table discussion about communicating climate science in the media.
Extreme weather, on the continent of extremes
What happens when extreme weather hits the continent of extremes – Antarctica?
Why 2023 was an exceptional year for Antarctic sea ice
In this edition of Beyond the Ice, Climate scientist Dr Ella Gilbert discusses the record-breaking lows of Antarctic sea ice which were in the news regularly throughout 2023.
