Topics | Umweltbundesamt

Yachting expeditions to the Antarctic are an option for those with a taste for something a bit more adventurous, hands-on and in a more personal atmosphere. Journeys on commercial vessels which travel to the region every season are very popular. It is also a lifelong dream come true for owners of sailing or motor yachts to travel to Antarctica with their own boats. read more

Antarctica is not only a very sensitive ecosystem, it is also a hostile environment for humans. Compliance with the visitor guidelines ensures protection of the flora and fauna as well as the visitors to Antarctica themselves. read more

Antarctica has been terra incognita for most of Earth’s history. The actual discovery of the continent started about 200 years ago. During two centuries mankind succeeded in exploring and gaining access to its remote regions. An impressive international treaty on its use for peaceful purposes and protection has developed since the mid-20th century. read more

Antarctica is a nature reserve dedicated to peace and scientific research. 29 signatory states to the Antarctic Treaty, including Germany, work in close and continuous cooperation in science in the perpetual ice. Their research covers a broad spectrum of topics, ranging from climate research to marine biology. read more

The oceans surrounding Antarctica are among the few regions in the world where there is little underwater noise caused by human activities. An UBA study shows that the scientific use of airguns can emit noise in to this sanctuary at distances of 2000 kilometres which may reduce the naturally available communication range of blue and fin whales to as little as 1%. read more

The UBA assesses whether a planned project or journey to Antarctica poses a threat to animal species or their populations. However, the current state of knowledge about whales in Antarctica is limited. UBA is therefore providing funding for projects to close these knowledge gaps. read more

Although the Antarctic does not "belong" to anyone as such, anybody travelling to the territory covered by the Antarctic Treaty must comply with certain rules during their stay. Any German national planning an activity in the Antarctic or organising a journey which originates in Germany must be granted approval from the German Federal Environment Agency. read more

Roald Amundsen said, “We must not cease to remember with gratitude and admiration the first seafarers who navigated their ships through storms and fog to augment our knowledge of the land of ice in the south”. Since discovery of the Antarctic our knowledge of it has grown steadily, and so has our responsibility for this fragile ecosystem. read more