Researchers at the CSIR have contributed to the book titled “Antarctica in the Earth System”, aiming to raise awareness of the vulnerability of polar regions. This publication serves as an invaluable resource for educators designing teaching materials, students studying polar sciences, policymakers shaping climate strategies and researchers working to protect the fragile ecosystems of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It effectively synthesises the latest research and insights, providing a comprehensive understanding of Antarctica’s role in the global Earth system. 

Sharing the story of how South Africa contributes to the Southern Ocean research are team members from the CSIR-hosted Southern Ocean Carbon-Climate Observatory (SOCCO), Dr Sandy Thomalla and Dr Sarah Nicholson. This effort is complemented by former CSIR researchers Dr Precious Mongwe and Dr Pedro Monteiro as chapter leads, alongside additional collaborators. They authored a chapter titled “The Southern Ocean Coupled Carbon and Climate Feedback Links to the Earth System: The Present – the Past – the Future.” 

“In our contribution to Chapter 5, we are delighted to provide a chronological perspective on our key research findings on how the carbon and climate feedback links to the Earth System and how it is affecting the Southern Ocean,” says CSIR research group leader Thomalla. “It’s important that we continue to narrate and chronicle the importance of a nationally funded science programme such as SOCCO, to worldwide audiences.”

Drawing on the latest research findings and thinking, the book will help audiences to understand Antarctica and the Southern Ocean from a global perspective, effectively synthesising the latest research and insights.

The book, comprising 352 pages, 12 chapters and 68 colour illustrations, guides readers in exploring the interconnectedness of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean with the rest of the planet, and what these connections mean for the future of all its inhabitants.   

First published on 24 March 2025, the book will be available for online purchase by 17 April 2025, with complimentary standard shipping on every order across the globe. 

Caption of the image:
CSIR researchers contributed a chapter in the book “Antarctica in the Earth System,” focusing on the Southern Ocean’s carbon and climate feedback. It will be available for online purchase by 17 April 2025, with free global shipping.