Protecting the Antarctic Heritage

Antarctica, the vast, frozen continent isolated at the southernmost edge of the Earth, holds a unique and influential place in global politics, history, and scientific discovery. From its early geographical exploration and colonial ambitions to its modern role in scientific research and international cooperation, Antarctica has been a dominating place for human progress.

Although the continent was first sighted and foot-stepped by human only in 1820, the idea of having a landmass on the southern edge of the earth has captured the imagination of thinkers as far back as the 3rd century BC. Driven by the curiosity of exploration, the desire to claim new territories, and the pursuit of fame and fortune, maritime expeditions set sail for Antarctica. The history of Antarctic exploration is deeply intertwined with the evolution of maritime exploration itself—pushing shipbuilders to develop new technologies while demanding explorers to adapt to extreme conditions of ice and stormy seas.

Over time, human presence in Antarctica left the human legacy behind in mainland Antarctica, the Islands in the Penninsuler and under the Southern Sea in various forms e.i. Shipwrecks, Expedition huts, Research bases, Scientific Observatories, memorial plaques, expedition materials, Scientific Instruments, Special Logistic Instruments, burial grounds or even human waste. Other than these Tangible Immovable material culture, there were/are many tangible movable object i.e. expedition and research ships that are bearing the memories of extreme human endurance and scientific achievements. 

The Antarctic Treaty, established to manage and protect the continent’s fragile environment, has made Antarctica a unique global heritage site. Its provisions, which designate the continent solely for scientific research, have transformed it into a living museum of 20th- and 21st-century scientific heritage. Many of the heritage of early human exploration as well as modern scientifc activities in the form of material culture are recognized as ´Historic Sites and Monuments´ (HSM) under the Antarctic Treaty and some are regularly monitored, conserved and protected through internationl co-operation.

The research project aims to investigate how the heritage value and significance are being considered and how the Authenticity of the monuments and sites have been defined, while recognizing the Antarctic Heritage under the Antarctic Treaty. Examination will be conducted on the impact of this recognition process on the protection measures in place and to consider the long-term future of Antarctic heritage.

Equally, It is important to understand, Lying alone on the isolated continent, what those heritages really mean to the people in the modern world. How people would connect themselves with those heritage! What is the contribution of Antarctic Heritage and their protection effort to the knowledge-making process? 

As the 21st century progresses, how can we ensure that the ongoing legacy of maritime exploration and scientific endeavor in Antarctica is not forgotten, but instead cherished and protected? Will these priceless records of human achievement in extreme conditions continue to inspire and educate, or risk being lost to time and ignorance?