bild
epa08381180 (16/49) Detail of ice layers in the Collins Glacier in King George Island in the South Shetland Islands, Antarctica, 11 March 2020. The ice mass of the glaciers in the region is retreating continuously. Every year the Chilean Antarctic Institute (INACH) organizes an Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ECA) to the White Continent in its 56th edition 49 projects carried out fieldwork, with over 500 people, ranging from logistics to national and international scientists being part of it. By late March four different projects were closing the campaign at INACH's main scientific base, Professor Julio Escudero, at the most northern tip of the Chilean Antarctic Territory. Two investigations covered the ecophysiology of lichen and the coupling of Antarctic fish species to a rapidly changing environment. The footprint of human presence in the region and melting glaciers concerning climate change were the other two research themes. Antarctic Science, in all its different fields, remains fundamental to understand the impact of climate change and can provide information and strategies to society to face future developments. EPA/FELIPE TRUEBA ATTENTION: For the full PHOTO ESSAY text please see Advisory Notice epa08381164