Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 55
55
Acknowledged
UK leadership in Antarctic science is crucial for climate change knowledge and global presence.
Conclusion
A full understanding of Antarctica is critical to the development of climate change knowledge, as conditions below the 60th parallel influence global weather patterns, ocean circulation, and sea-level rise. The UK, a leader in 103 Antarctic science, contributes around 15% of global research on the region and ranks third worldwide in scientific output. This expertise supports the UK’s ambition to be a “science superpower”, as articulated in the 2021 Integrated Review. Maintaining UK leadership in polar science is essential for addressing climate challenges and enhancing the UK’s global scientific presence. (Conclusion, Paragraph 234)
Government Response Summary
The government accepts the conclusion that understanding Antarctica is critical for climate change knowledge and that maintaining UK leadership in polar science is essential, without committing to new actions.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
. The Government accepts this recommendation.