Clean Planet Peninsula Project gains expert Antarctic advisory support from British Antarctic Survey
- 8 hours ago
- 3 min read
The Clean Planet Foundation (CPF) today announced that the British Antarctic Survey (BAS) has agreed an advisory framework to support the Clean Planet Peninsula Project, a multi-year initiative focused on microplastic pollution in polar regions and the development of responsible, low-impact scientific fieldwork practices.
BAS will provide scientific advice and guidance to the Clean Planet Foundation to help ensure the project aligns with recognised polar scientific standards. This includes advice on sampling protocols designed to minimise contamination and environmental impact, as well as guidance on potential Antarctic sampling locations ahead of the project’s planned Antarctic expedition phase in 2026 & 2027.
The advisory framework comes as the Clean Planet Peninsula Project prepares for its transition from Arctic training and pilot sampling into its Antarctic research phase.
The Clean Planet Peninsula Project, initiated by the Clean Planet Foundation, provides early-career scientists with structured polar training and science-led expedition experience between 2023 and 2027, with a final research publication planned for 2027/8. The programme is led by Expedition Leader Captain Preet Chandi MBE, with scientific leadership provided by Professor Fay Couceiro and the University of Portsmouth.
Dr Katerina Garyfalou, VP Global Partnerships, Clean Planet Foundation, said:
“The Clean Planet Peninsula Project exists to help early-career scientists build the practical field skills needed to undertake rigorous polar research, while advancing understanding of microplastic pollution in some of the most remote environments on Earth. This advisory framework strengthens our scientific planning as we work towards the project’s Antarctic phase.”
Captain Preet Chandi MBE, Expedition Leader, said:
“Polar fieldwork demands discipline, consistency and deep respect for the environment. Access to expert scientific advice helps ensure our field practices meet high standards, while supporting the next generation of scientists to operate safely and effectively in extreme conditions.”
Dr Clara Manno, a marine ecologist and leader of the microplastic team at British Antarctic Survey, said:
“British Antarctic Survey is pleased to support the Clean Planet Peninsula Project in an advisory capacity, providing guidance on scientific protocols and considerations for Antarctic sampling. Responsible, well-designed research is essential to protecting polar environments, and we welcome opportunities to share expertise that helps uphold those standards.”
Notes on British Antarctic Survey involvement
BAS’s role under the MOU is limited to scientific advice and guidance. The agreement does not constitute an endorsement of the Clean Planet Foundation or the Clean Planet Peninsula Project, and does not create or imply any collaboration, endorsement, or association between BAS and any other entity within the Clean Planet Group.
About the Clean Planet Foundation
The Clean Planet Foundation is a UK-based not-for-profit organisation delivering education, research training and community programmes that help young people engage with science, environmental understanding and responsible action.
About the British Antarctic SurveyThe British Antarctic Survey strives to uncover the secrets of the Polar Regions and the frozen regions of the Earth. Our expertise spans the depths of the oceans to the inner edge of space.
Our research highlights the fragility of the Earth’s frozen environments, and what that means for our planet. We have been living and working in the extremes of Antarctica and the Arctic for over 60 years. Our scientists discovered the hole in the ozone layer and identified key evidence for climate change in ancient ice – our science continues to inform decision-makers. We provide the UK’s national polar capability by operating research stations, aircraft and Royal Research Ship Sir David Attenborough, supporting science at the poles and securing the UK’s presence in Antarctic affairs.
Find us at: www.bas.ac.uk
The British Antarctic Survey is part of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC). NERC is part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
External Media contacts
British Antarctic Survey: Emily Neville, Communications and Engagement Manager. Contact: press@bas.ac.uk | 01223 637309