Antarctica isn't just a climate story.
For more than 65 years, Antarctica has been governed by one of the most remarkable international agreements ever created. At the height of the Cold War, countries with competing territorial claims agreed to set conflict aside and dedicate an entire continent to peace, science and environmental protection.
Meet Claire Christian, Executive Director of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) - the only environmental organisation invited to participate directly in meetings of the Antarctic Treaty System. With more than 15 years working inside the Treaty System, Claire offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how the world cooperates to protect one of the most important places on earth.
In this episode:
Why the Antarctic Treaty remains one of humanity's greatest diplomatic achievements
How Antarctica shapes climate, oceans and sea levels around the world
What Antarctica can teach us about our relationship with nature
The challenges of protecting the Southern Ocean in a changing climate
Why consensus is the Antarctic Treaty System's greatest strength and biggest frustration
The future of our coldest and driest continent
Timestamps:
00:31 Why Antarctica Matters
04:19 Meet Claire Christian
05:58 How Antarctica Shapes the World
08:59 The Ross Sea Success Story
10:55 Inside the Antarctic Treaty
16:25 Midpoint Reflections - The Human Side of Diplomacy
18:54 Antarctica and the News
20:26 What Claire Has Learned From Visiting Antarctica
22:27 A Wonderful World of Invertebrates
23:27 The Issue of Krill
25:09 Thwaites Glacier
25:57 The Climate Challenge
28:10 A Vision for Antarctica's Future
30:02 What Antarctica Can Teach Us
31:46 Final Reflections
Find out More:
👉 Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition - ASOC
👉 Claire Christian
About Fix The News:
Fix The News is a solutions-focused media platform sharing stories from the frontlines of progress - exploring what’s working in the world and the people making it happen.
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Production credits:
Hosted by Angus Hervey and Amy Davoren-Rose
Produced by Fix The News
Audio production: Anthony Badolato, Hear That!
This episode was produced in Australia on the lands of the Gadigal, Wurundjeri and Woi Wurrung peoples.
