Journey to Save the Planet

Climate activist Melissa Tan embarked on the Antarctic Climate Expedition to raise awareness about ocean conservation

- Chong Jinn Xiung

Antarctica is the frontline of the climate crisis. It holds vital clues and solutions for our planet’s survival. It shows us how to protect the ocean, our most important ally in fighting climate change.

The ocean covers more than 70 per cent of our planet. It is home to the majority of life on Earth, absorbs most of the excess heat and carbon emissions produced by human activities, and acts as a shield against the worst impacts of climate change. That’s why we need to safeguard the ocean from harmful activities such as industrial fishing and deep-sea mining, particularly in the high seas, which remains presently unclaimed.

Though Antarctica is a pristine wilderness with no permanent human settlements, it is not immune to the effects of climate change. Signs of trouble are evident everywhere: heavy snowfall, unusual rainfall, dying penguin chicks, melting glaciers, breaking icebergs, and the presence of microplastics in every sample. These serve as warning signals for the entire world.

In February this year, Malaysian climate activist and EarthDay.org ambassador Melissa Tan joined the Antarctic Climate Expedition (ACE) led by renowned oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle.

“When I heard that Dr Sylvia Earle was organising a climate expedition, I wanted to participate. I never imagined that I would be able to meet such an amazing group of climate activists,” she says.