Who Makes a Difference?- We do

Antarctica is a peaceful kingdom, writes Dian Olsen Belanger in her book, Deep Freeze.

Science is the primary focus for the Icy Continent. We learn about space, earth's changing climate, life sciences, ecosystems--every thinkable aspect of science can be researched at the bottom of the world. We also enlighten ourselves about humans under extreme conditions when we study Antarctica.
The Antarctic Treaty is an important accomplishment in the 20th century. The world came together to protect one place on earth from war, politics, mining and exploitation. We continue the "how did this happen?!" thought, with our new Paris Agreement. I love it when the world collectively determines something positive for our future. Critics say it's not enough. Like the Antarctic Treaty, the fact that we have this agreement is a feat worth celebrating. Over 100 countries in agreement and counting.

As I reflect on the success of Admiral Byrd's III expedition to the South Pole, I'm reminded that the human side of any endeavor can make or break the most well thought out plan. 125 men and 80 dogs found ways to cope with the harshness of their voyage because they each did their part and relied on the other.

George W. Gibbs Jr., said it was the best time in his life. Gibbs was 23 when he sailed on the USS Bear. When I first heard this, as his daughter, I felt disappointed that it didn't include me (haha).
The trip was well before he was married with family. After all the amazing things he experienced, Antartica was it! Count down Day 2 until his 100th birthday.

Remember every day, we make the difference in our future.

Miles to other world cities from King George Island 2012 ©Leilani Henry

10,000 days to the Renegotiation of the Antarctic Treaty-Robert Swan 2041

Robert Swan and 2041 posted on Facebook today, August 16, 2013

"10,000 days from today, it will be the year 2041. What will you be doing for the next 10,000 days to ensure that we leave one place alone- Antarctica?"  

I believe this is critical for the future of humanity and the planet.  Let's leave one place on earth where wilderness is mostly untouched.

Politics of the Ross Sea, Antarctica

Even though no one owns Antarctica, the Treaty requires agreement among nations.  We need to hold the space for agreement to protect the Ross Sea from fishing- The last pristine waters of the world!  Important times for Antarctica.  See this link on the deliberation this summer for an Antarctic park.

No More Dogs in Antarctica

I'm preparing to speak to Gibbs Elementary first graders this morning.  I've been thinking about the Antarctic Treaty and it's importance on the world's stage.  I didn't realize that since 1993,  the Antartic Treaty bans dogs.
According to USA Today, "This action was taken because of evidence that the canine disease distemper was spreading to Antarctica’s seals."  There may be other reasons not stated, but expeditions with dogs are a thing of the past.  George W Gibbs, Jr., spoke fondly of the dogs and the dog drivers on his trip.  They were essential to pull gear and help f ind crevasses for the ice party.  We chose the picture ( at the top of this blog) of my father with dogs for this reason.