Frozen Planet

We are looking forward to the first episode of Frozen Planet from the BBC-it looks stunning and ties in very nicely with our Oceans channel and resources! Supporting growing public awareness of life at the poles, the first episode will air on BBC One shortly.

Frozen Planet takes you on an adventure through the Arctic and Antarctic environment and wildlife through a 7-part series narrated by Sir David Attenborough who has spent quite a bit of time exploring these regions. One of the short clips that links well with our Frozen  Oceans resources is titled On Thin Ice, and discusses the effects of climate change on regions such as the poles and the ways scientists are now trying to understand it.

Check it out at BBC-One Frozen Planet!

Are the oceans the next Greek tragedy?

Our oceans currently face an uncertain future as their chemistry continues to change due to the 22 million tons of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere each day. The carbon dioxide released into the oceans is causing the water to become more acidic, creating conditions not seen since the dinosaurs. Scientists now know that many species, including humans, will suffer unless something is done about the problem.

The NRDC explores the many concerns of ocean acidification in their film Acid Test: The Global Challenge of Ocean Acidification.  Scientific experts on this issue explain how acidification is affecting the oceans, what we can do to prevent further damage, and the future of the oceans if the problem continues.  ’Acid Test’ concludes that we are in the last few decades of ocean life as we know it. If acidification continues many organisms at the bottom of marine food webs will die out creating a domino affect all the way up the food chain, even to human communities who rely on these systems for income and food.

Even with the current state of the oceans, it is not too late to turn the problem around. Ways do exist for humans to cut back on fossil fuels, restore fish stocks, and keep our oceans safe.

Like explained in the video, Greek tragedies are so tragic because we see them coming. So do we continue living in the same ways? Or choose to change and prevent a global tragedy?

Explore 2011

Check out Explore 2011 on 18-20 November at the RGS-IBG!

The Explore 2011 weekend is dedicated to providing the latest information to all of you  interested in planning field work projects and expeditions of your own. Over the course of the weekend participants will hear first hand experiences and advice from leading field scientists and explorers in a range of disciplines through workshops, seminars, and one-on-one sessions. Explore 2011 provides the perfect opportunity to also make new connections and gain inspiration for your own ventures.

So whether an expert or amateur,you should not miss out on everything Explore 2011 has to offer!

Book before 14 October to take advantage of the ‘Early Bird’ fees and also take a look at the event’s website.