"My main objective whilst in Antarctica was to undertake an
environmental monitoring project on the world's most southernmost
windfarm development. The Crater Hill windfarm is a collaborative
project between Antarctica New Zealand and Meridian Energy that
will supply renewable energy to New Zealand's own Scott Base and
the U.S McMurdo Station through a linked electrical grid. The
windfarm will significantly reduce the carbon footprint of both
bases (1,242 tonnes of CO2 annually) and cut diesel fuel
consumption by an estimated 11% (463,000 litres). In addition, this
initiative will reduce the environmental risk associated with the
transporting, handling and storage of diesel fuel in Antarctica.
This season the foundations have been installed and next summer the
turbines themselves will be erected and commissioned.
Whilst on the continent I also worked alongside the
Environmental Team from Antarctica New Zealand accompanying Renee
Burns, an Environmental Officer on a visit to the McMurdo Dry
Valleys to conduct environmental audits of field parties. The
McMurdo Dry Valleys, located southwest of Ross Island, have a
unique ecosystem and landform that is very sensitive to
disturbance. The visit to the Dry Valley's is unlike anything you
would expect to see in Antarctica; largely void of ice except for
massive glaciers that scour the valleys. They are barren, cold and
massive, but without any indicators of scale. We visited camps of
scientists in the Miers and Garwood Valleys to see how they live in
these remote locations and to ensure they were taking appropriate
measures to protect this special environment and keep themselves
safe.
I joined Renee on a visit to meet the U.S Environmental Team at
McMurdo Station. We had a tour of the station's facilities
including the waste water treatment plant, Creary Laboratory,
garbage and recycling procedures and discussed potential combined
initiatives to help reduce the impacts of both bases on the
continent. The proximity of the U.S and New Zealand bases ensures
they retain a close working relationship and have shared incentive
to protect the local environment in McMurdo Sound.
My time at Scott Base coincided with the annual U.S versus New
Zealand rugby match for the Ross Island Trophy. It was a great day
and provided real insight into the spirit of both nations and the
individuals on ice. The match was held on the one year anniversary
of Sir Edmond Hillary's death. It was special to share in the
remembrance of such a fantastic New Zealander with the individuals
who strive to carry on his legacy in Antarctica.
Over the coming months I will complete the environmental
monitoring report for the Crater Hill windfarm development. I plan
to share my experiences and passion for Antarctica as widely as
possible and as the 2008 Antarctic Youth Ambassador I hope to
facilitate others' learning and understanding of our unique
southern continent"