I’ve spent 40 years in Antarctic research. Right now it’s facing a climate emergency so we must not put vital science on ice | Dana M Bergstrom for the Conversation

Antarctica is experiencing disturbing changes - from missing winter sea ice to disintegrating ice shelves - and it's almost certain things will get worse

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After decades immersed in Antarctic science, I've learned that physical and biological changes rarely occur smoothly. More often than not, they unfold in sharp steps. Right now, Antarctica's climate and ecosystems are experiencing disturbing changes.

Much of this winter's sea ice is missing. A crucial ocean current is slowing down, and glaciers and ice shelves are disintegrating.

Changes in Antarctic and Southern Ocean environments are linked to, and influence, climate impact drivers globally.