I just returned from Antarctica: climate change isn’t some far-off problem – it’s here and hitting hard | Jennifer Verduin

The Antarctica is often seen as the last place really far on the ground – frozen, wild and unfamiliar. But is it really not to touch it as it seems?

This vast frozen continent is surrounded by the Siri current in the Antarctic, and it is the only current in the world that connects all the oceans, indicating the extent of our planet closely related.

Earlier this year, I joined more than 100 scientists on a trip to Antarctica. What we faced was unusual: towering icebergs, fun penguins, breaching whales and seals that rest on ice. However, under this natural wonder it lies a realistic fact – the Antarctica changes and quickly. The experience left me inspiring and deep sadness.

This unique environment highlights the fragility of our planet. The virgin landscape and prosperous wildlife represent what we will lose if we do not take urgent measures to reduce the human effect.

Historically, Antarctica suffered from exploitation – the hunters came to whales and seals, leaving the scars on its ecological systems. While wildlife is slowly recovering, these types are now facing a new threat: climate change. The high temperatures of the ocean melting ice, reshaping habitats and disrupting the exact balance of life.

The continent stands as a strong symbol of our interconnected climate systems – a convincing case of preservation. During our visit, we toured the research stations and Port Lucrue, where the gentle penguins raised their chicks. Here, human activity is carefully managed. Half the island is set aside for the penguin road, while the other half welcomes about 18,000 tourists every year they learn about this wonderful place. It is a model of coexistence – it shows how we can live alongside nature when we choose to act responsibly.

Along our journey, we have seen a diverse wildlife in their natural habitats – from penguins and seals to whales and sea birds. Both Patros and Cape Petrels followed our ship, as they were an effort on the waves – the symbols of flexibility, but also weakness.

But reminders of previous damage are still in place. On the island of deception, the residues of rust can cause whale hunting as a blatant evidence of the unpredictable damage. They also confirm the reason for the continued protection of these fragile ecosystems is vital.

As an ocean, I study how the ocean is our world – and the southern cats are essential to that story. The waters surrounding the calm, Indian and Atlantic oceans link the Southern Pole -biography. This connection means that what is happening in Antarctica affects all of us. Pollution, sea warming and oil spills do not know the borders. These changes disrupt the peripheral currents, harm marine life and influence climate systems around the world.

Clear effects: addressing environmental challenges require international cooperation and decisive work.

For Australia and other countries, the lesson is sooner. We must embrace sustainable practices, invest in renewable energy and support conservation efforts. By reducing carbon emissions and learning from the past, we can help protect Antarctica – the planet – for future generations.

My journey was not just watching climate change – it was about understanding the deep connection that connects our world. It is not only about telling the adventure story. It comes to awareness of the power of science, leadership and teamwork to advance a meaningful change.

Antarctica reminds us, with all her beauty and purpose, what is at stake – and why should we behave now. The urgency is real. The responsibility is our birth. Together, we can protect this exceptional planet.