The National Parks Administration (APN) has reinforced its commitment to conservation and environmental research in the white continent, participating in the Antarctic Summer Campaign. The participation was carried out by a representative from the National Directorate of Marine Protected Areas.
Between November 28, 2024 and March 15, 2025, the technician Nahuel Ravina conducted studies on the presence and abundance of microplastics, analyzing their impact on subsurface waters and the overlying air.
Research in marine protected areas and Orcadas Base
During the 110 days of the Antarctic campaign aboard the Icebreaker Almirante Irizar, Ravina carried out technical-scientific tasks in the Namuncurá-Burdwood Bank and Yaganes Marine Protected Areas, as well as at Orcadas Base. In collaboration with the wintering national park rangers, samples of sediment, snow, and coastal water were taken. The objective was to assess microplastic pollution in these unique environments.
The analysis of the collected materials will begin in the coming months. It will take place at the Argentine Antarctic Institute, using state-of-the-art microscopes provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency.
For this process, Ravina received specialized training at the Marine and Coastal Research Institute of the University of Mar del Plata, ensuring optimal application of the technology for the study.
Environmental education and audiovisual documentation
In addition to scientific research, the mission included capturing images for educational content, aimed at raising awareness about marine conservation.
Among the most outstanding shots are those obtained with drones, achieved at extremely southern coordinates, reaching latitude 77º South.
Implications and future of the study
This effort reinforces the importance of monitoring the presence of microplastics in Antarctica. An emerging problem that threatens biodiversity and marine ecosystems.
The results obtained will evaluate the environmental impact and contribute to future policies of conservation and pollution reduction in protected areas.
Through the combination of advanced technology, scientific cooperation, and environmental education, the APN continues to strengthen its institutional presence in Antarctica, reaffirming its commitment to research and ocean preservation.
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