As has been mentioned on numerous occasions, climate change affects every corner of the Earth. In some places, due to their latitude or conditions, there are areas that are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change , while others are more resilient.
The Chilean region of Magallanes and Antarctica, at the southern tip of South America, offers exceptional conditions for studying the effects of climate change. This is something that science should take advantage of to obtain better results and greater knowledge about potential actions and consequences.
The southernmost area of ​​the planet
Located 3.000 kilometers south of Santiago is the city of Punta Arenas. It is the epicenter of scientific missions operating in Magallanes and Antarctica. It is the southernmost region on the planet and is developing into a major sub-Antarctic and Antarctic scientific hub.
Climate change and marine environment research
Making these regions a scientific and technological hub of global reach responds to the fact that the current phenomenon of climate variability has impacts on the areas of the Center for Research on the Dynamics of High Latitude Marine Ecosystems (IDEAL).
Conducting scientific studies and analyses in this region allows us to obtain a wealth of valuable information related to all the changes occurring due to climate change. Among the studies being conducted in this region is understanding how climate change affects the marine environment. Rising temperatures and high concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere have impacts on the oceans. For example, we are witnessing coral bleaching, water acidification, and the destruction of habitats for species that are more vulnerable to environmental changes.
Specifically, the most vulnerable areas are those that need to be studied in greater detail, as they offer the most information about how changes can affect the species that live there. Thanks to a greater response to environmental changes, more experiments and tests can be conducted to gain a better understanding of the consequences, as discussed in the case of Australian green turtles.
Marine ecosystems must be protected
Having positive results from experiments in these areas allows authorities to make decisions that can protect marine ecosystems. If we have a more or less accurate understanding of the consequences a particular effect can have on a species, we can take measures to protect that species, as seen in .
An example of this is the retreat of glaciers in some fjords in the area. This effect causes meltwater from the area to enter the marine environment, altering its chemical and biological properties. Species that require a specific salt concentration to survive will not be able to withstand these changes and will die, which is directly related to glacial retreat.
Since it's difficult to reverse the effects of climate change, the most important thing is to find solutions to the problems that arise. Viable solutions that help marine environments adapt to climate change, something that is also being addressed in threatened deserts.
Environmental education as a solution tool
Educating young children to take responsibility for the environment is a key tool for addressing the environmental problems stemming from climate change. It's worth noting that by training people capable of researching, analyzing, and making pro-environmental decisions, we will foster global awareness of the importance of respecting the environment. All of this will contribute more positively to mitigating the consequences of climate change , as discussed in [reference to relevant document].
If we want young people to get involved in science, we need environmental education. The fact that Chile possesses Antarctic and sub-Antarctic ecosystems in its southern region that are ideal for research can attract resources from other countries and international organizations, as is the case with astronomical observation in the north of the country. Currently, the Center for Research on the Dynamics of High-Latitude Marine Ecosystems (IDEAL) is one of the most active scientific entities in the area, with a team of 25 researchers from various institutions.
