by Ria Olivier | Jun 8, 2026 | Commemorative Days, Environment, International Days, Oceanography, Research, Southern Ocean
On 8 June, the global community celebrates World Oceans Day, recognising the critical role oceans play in sustaining life on Earth. Oceans regulate climate, produce much of the oxygen we breathe, absorb carbon dioxide, support biodiversity, and provide food and livelihoods for billions of people. This year’s observance highlights the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems and ensuring their resilience in the face of environmental change.
World Oceans Day theme for 2026 is “Reimagine: Beyond the world we know, a new relationship with our ocean,” with a primary conservation action theme focused on “Strong Marine Protected Areas for Our Blue Planet”
The Southern Ocean, which surrounds Antarctica, is one of the most important yet least understood oceans on Earth. It connects the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans and plays a vital role in regulating global climate by absorbing heat and carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Changes in the Southern Ocean can influence weather patterns, sea levels, marine ecosystems and climate processes far beyond the polar regions, including those affecting South Africa.
SANAP scientists are at the forefront of Southern Ocean research. Projects such as The Biological Carbon Pump in a Changing Southern Ocean, Micronutrient and Pollutant Trace Elements at the Air-Sea Interface of the Southern Ocean, Decoding the Mercury Cycle in the Southern Ocean, and Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus investigate the complex processes that influence ocean health and climate regulation. Research on phytoplankton through the ECOSOPHY project helps scientists understand the foundation of Southern Ocean food webs and the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon from the atmosphere.
World Oceans Day reminds us that protecting the ocean begins with understanding it. Through long-term observations, innovative technologies and international collaboration, SANAP continues to generate knowledge that contributes to the sustainable management of one of the planet’s most important ecosystems. As we continue to celebrate Environment Month, we recognise that a healthy Southern Ocean is essential for a healthy planet.
by Ria Olivier | Jun 5, 2026 | Antarctica, Commemorative Days, Marion Island, Prince Edward Islands, Research, Science, Southern Ocean
Today, 5 June 2026, the world celebrates World Environment Day, the United Nations’ largest global platform for environmental awareness and action. This year’s theme, Climate Action, focuses on the urgent signals coming from our planet, the transition towards cleaner energy systems, and the growing momentum behind environmental solutions. It is a reminder that understanding environmental change is essential for building a more sustainable future.
For the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), climate action begins with science. The polar regions and the Southern Ocean are among the most sensitive indicators of environmental change. Research conducted by SANAP scientists provides valuable information about how climate change is affecting ice sheets, ocean circulation, biodiversity, and global weather systems. These findings not only improve our understanding of the Earth’s climate but also help policymakers make informed decisions to address environmental challenges.
Several SANAP projects directly contribute to climate-related research. Studies such as Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus: Mixed-Layer Processes and Feedbacks for Improved Climate Projections, The Biological Carbon Pump in a Changing Southern Ocean, and ECOSOPHY – Emergent Constraints on Southern Ocean Phytoplankton Physiology investigate how the Southern Ocean regulates carbon and heat, helping to moderate global climate. Research on sea ice, including Growth Dynamics of Sea Ice and How They Affect Sea Ice Mechanics and Antarctic MIZ Observations, provides critical insights into one of the fastest-changing components of the Earth’s climate system.
As we mark World Environment Day, SANAP reaffirms its commitment to advancing scientific knowledge that supports climate action. Through collaborative research in Antarctica, the Southern Ocean and the sub-Antarctic region, South African scientists continue to contribute to global efforts aimed at understanding environmental change and protecting the planet for future generations. In our next Environment Month feature, we turn our attention to the Southern Ocean and celebrate World Oceans Day on 8 June
by Ria Olivier | Jun 1, 2026 | Antarctica, Commemorative Days, Environment, Gough Island, Prince Edward Islands, Research, SANAP, Science, Southern Ocean, sub-Antarctic
June is recognised as Environment Month in South Africa, a time to reflect on the importance of protecting our natural world and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. The month culminates in World Environment Day on 5 June, a global initiative led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). In 2026, the international campaign focuses on Climate Action, highlighting the urgent signals being sent by our planet, the transition to cleaner energy systems, and the accelerating pace of environmental solutions.
As a programme of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) and the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSTI), the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP) plays an important role in advancing our understanding of environmental change. Through research conducted in Antarctica, the Southern Ocean, Marion Island, Prince Edward Island and Gough Island, SANAP scientists contribute critical knowledge about climate systems, biodiversity, ocean health and ecosystem resilience. These remote regions serve as early warning systems for environmental changes that ultimately affect South Africa and the rest of the world.
Several SANAP research projects directly address environmental challenges. Studies such as On-island impacts of climate change on the Southern Ocean’s iconic seabirds, Interactive effects of multiple stressors and environmental change on seabird breeding performance, and Landscape and Climate Interactions in the sub-Antarctic help scientists understand how species and ecosystems respond to changing environmental conditions. Other projects, including Marion Island Mouse Ecology (MISE) and Marion Island Top Predator Long-Term Observations, provide valuable insights into ecosystem dynamics and conservation needs.
Throughout Environment Month, SANAP will highlight how polar and Southern Ocean research contributes to understanding
by Ria Olivier | Apr 21, 2026 | Antarctica, Environment, Gough Island, International Days, Marion Island, Prince Edward Island, Research, Science, Southern Ocean, sub-Antarctic
Earth Day is commemorated annually on 22 April and is one of the largest global environmental movements. In 2026, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” highlights the importance of civic action, community engagement, and collective responsibility in addressing environmental challenges. For the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), Earth Day is not only a moment of reflection, but also a celebration of ongoing scientific research, conservation efforts, and the people who make this work possible.
Why Earth Day Matters! SANAP’s vision to understand, develop, and conserve the Antarctic, sub-Antarctic, and Southern Ocean environments aligns directly with the principles of Earth Day. These remote regions are critical to the health of our planet. They regulate global climate systems, support unique biodiversity, and provide essential insights into environmental change. Research is vital in a world where environmental risks continue to dominate global concerns and research conducted through SANAP contributes to:
- Understanding climate change and its global impacts
- Protecting fragile sub-Antarctic ecosystems
- Monitoring marine and terrestrial biodiversity
- Supporting sustainable environmental stewardship
SANAP scientists and researchers work in some of the most extreme environments on Earth, studying ocean systems, atmospheric processes, wildlife ecology, and environmental change. Their work contributes to international scientific knowledge and informs global responses to climate challenges. Equally important are the support personnel who ensures that research can be conducted safely and effectively. Earth Day is an opportunity to recognise the collective effort required to sustain Antarctic science.
Earth Day reminds us that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. While SANAP operates in remote regions, the insights gained have global relevance. Healthy ecosystems—from the Antarctic to Southern Ocean currents—play a crucial role in climate regulation, biodiversity, and human wellbeing. The 2026 focus on civic mobilisation and community action reinforces the idea that meaningful change comes from both scientific understanding and public engagement. Within the SANAP community, Earth Day is a time to:
- Reflect on the importance of Antarctic and ocean research
- Celebrate the contributions of scientists and support teams
- Promote awareness of environmental conservation
- Inspire continued commitment to protecting our planet
By advancing knowledge and supporting conservation, SANAP contributes to a global effort to safeguard Earth’s future.
by Ria Olivier | Mar 22, 2026 | International Days, Oceanography, Research, SANAP, Science, Southern Ocean
Each year on World Water Day (22 March), the global community reflects on the importance of freshwater and the urgent need to protect it. In 2026, the theme “Water and Gender: Where water flows, equality grows” reminds us that access to clean water is not only an environmental priority, but also a social one. Around the world, water scarcity, pollution and climate change continue to threaten communities and ecosystems alike. Through initiatives led by UNESCO—including the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) and the World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP)—scientific research is being translated into real-world solutions that help countries better manage and safeguard this vital resource.
UCT ice-tethered buoy deployments and retrieval.
For the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), the Southern Ocean plays a critical role in understanding Earth’s water systems. This vast and dynamic ocean regulates global climate, drives ocean circulation and influences rainfall patterns far beyond the polar regions—including across southern Africa. SANAP-supported research in this remote environment helps scientists track how changing temperatures, melting ice and shifting currents affect the global water cycle. By studying these processes, researchers gain insights into future water availability, the stability of marine ecosystems and the long-term impacts of climate change on freshwater resources.
Protecting water for future generations depends on knowledge, collaboration and sustained scientific effort. Research conducted in the Southern Ocean not only deepens our understanding of planetary systems, but also supports informed decision-making that benefits societies worldwide. As we mark World Water Day 2026, SANAP’s work highlights a powerful truth: even the most distant oceans are connected to the water we rely on every day. By investing in science and fostering inclusive approaches to water management, we can help ensure that where water flows, opportunity and equality can grow.
by Ria Olivier | Feb 26, 2026 | Announcement, Antarctica, Southern Ocean, sub-Antarctic
26 February 2026
Save the date: Workshops to update the Marine Research Plan and the Antarctic and Southern Ocean Research Plan
Dear Members of the Marine and Antarctic Research Community
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, together with the National Research Foundation is scheduling two independent Research Plan workshops at the end of March 2026 to bring together representatives of the research community with the objective of updating the Marine and Antarctic research plans. The Antarctic and Southern Ocean Research Plan workshop will take place on 24-25 March 2026, and the Marine Research Plan workshop will take place on 26-27 March 2026. It is acknowledged that a small number of researchers are active in both research areas, and the option to participate in both workshops is made available as the inputs into each plan will be distinct.
Together these research plans implement the 2016 Marine and Antarctic Strategy and are updated every 10 years. The new research plans will cover 2026-2036. Input documents for the workshop will be as follows:
The workshops will take the format of framing presentations from the DSTI and the NRF, breakaway groups for theme-specific discussions and feedback sessions, and group discussions for cross-cutting topics. We anticipate one full day and one half day per workshop. All sessions will be recorded and shared with a specialised writer as identified by the DSTI, who will produce the final version of each research plan. An agenda will follow in due course.
The Department does not anticipate significant changes to the themes as expressed in the 2014 2024 research plans. There is, however, a strong expectation that the new research plans pivot slightly to address the imperatives as detailed in the 2022-2032 Decadal Plan.
The workshops will be hosted in the Western Cape (venue to be determined). The National Research Foundation will assist with travel and accommodation for representatives from outside Cape Town. We have capped the participation numbers at 40 people per workshop due to financial constraints but encourage representatives from all institutions and all thematic areas to contribute both in preparation for the event, and during the event. We are hoping to have an option for virtual participation should the demand exceed to space/budget available. The colleagues that are managing the logistics elements at the NRF will suggest flight times to allow for group shuttles between the venue and the airport. This significantly cuts costs. Colleagues wishing to travel outside these timeslots will need to arrange their own transportation to the venue and back to the airport.
Physical participation in this event will be prioritised for established researchers. Institutional and thematic representation will inform final travel approvals should the numbers exceed the stipulated limits. We ask that you complete the registration forms below so that we can keep track of participants, both those requiring logistic support and those participating locally.
The link to participate virtually will be shared on request. All queries should be sent directly to me at TJ.Klarenbeek@risa.nrf.ac.za .
We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you at the end of March 2026.
Tracy Klarenbeek
NRF: Thematic Research Support and Advancement
SANAP scientists are at the forefront of Southern Ocean research. Projects such as The Biological Carbon Pump in a Changing Southern Ocean, Micronutrient and Pollutant Trace Elements at the Air-Sea Interface of the Southern Ocean, Decoding the Mercury Cycle in the Southern Ocean, and Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus investigate the complex processes that influence ocean health and climate regulation. Research on phytoplankton through the ECOSOPHY project helps scientists understand the foundation of Southern Ocean food webs and the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon from the atmosphere.
World Oceans Day reminds us that protecting the ocean begins with understanding it. Through long-term observations, innovative technologies and international collaboration, SANAP continues to generate knowledge that contributes to the sustainable management of one of the planet’s most important ecosystems. As we continue to celebrate Environment Month, we recognise that a healthy Southern Ocean is essential for a healthy planet.
For the South African National Antarctic Programme (SANAP), climate action begins with science. The polar regions and the Southern Ocean are among the most sensitive indicators of environmental change. Research conducted by SANAP scientists provides valuable information about how climate change is affecting ice sheets, ocean circulation, biodiversity, and global weather systems. These findings not only improve our understanding of the Earth’s climate but also help policymakers make informed decisions to address environmental challenges.
Several SANAP projects directly contribute to climate-related research. Studies such as Southern Ocean Carbon-Heat Nexus: Mixed-Layer Processes and Feedbacks for Improved Climate Projections, The Biological Carbon Pump in a Changing Southern Ocean, and ECOSOPHY – Emergent Constraints on Southern Ocean Phytoplankton Physiology investigate how the Southern Ocean regulates carbon and heat, helping to moderate global climate. Research on sea ice, including Growth Dynamics of Sea Ice and How They Affect Sea Ice Mechanics and Antarctic MIZ Observations, provides critical insights into one of the fastest-changing components of the Earth’s climate system.
As we mark World Environment Day, SANAP reaffirms its commitment to advancing scientific knowledge that supports climate action. Through collaborative research in Antarctica, the Southern Ocean and the sub-Antarctic region, South African scientists continue to contribute to global efforts aimed at understanding environmental change and protecting the planet for future generations. In our next Environment Month feature, we turn our attention to the Southern Ocean and celebrate World Oceans Day on 8 June
Several SANAP research projects directly address environmental challenges. Studies such as On-island impacts of climate change on the Southern Ocean’s iconic seabirds, Interactive effects of multiple stressors and environmental change on seabird breeding performance, and Landscape and Climate Interactions in the sub-Antarctic help scientists understand how species and ecosystems respond to changing environmental conditions. Other projects, including Marion Island Mouse Ecology (MISE) and Marion Island Top Predator Long-Term Observations, provide valuable insights into ecosystem dynamics and conservation needs.
SANAP scientists and researchers work in some of the most extreme environments on Earth, studying ocean systems, atmospheric processes, wildlife ecology, and environmental change. Their work contributes to international scientific knowledge and informs global responses to climate challenges. Equally important are the support personnel who ensures that research can be conducted safely and effectively. Earth Day is an opportunity to recognise the collective effort required to sustain Antarctic science.
Earth Day reminds us that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. While SANAP operates in remote regions, the insights gained have global relevance. Healthy ecosystems—from the Antarctic to Southern Ocean currents—play a crucial role in climate regulation, biodiversity, and human wellbeing. The 2026 focus on civic mobilisation and community action reinforces the idea that meaningful change comes from both scientific understanding and public engagement. Within the SANAP community, Earth Day is a time to:
Each year on World Water Day (22 March), the global community reflects on the importance of freshwater and the urgent need to protect it. In 2026, the theme “Water and Gender: Where water flows, equality grows” reminds us that access to clean water is not only an environmental priority, but also a social one. Around the world, water scarcity, pollution and climate change continue to threaten communities and ecosystems alike. Through initiatives led by UNESCO—including the Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) and the World Water Assessment Programme (WWAP)—scientific research is being translated into real-world solutions that help countries better manage and safeguard this vital resource.
26 February 2026
