A flag for the Antarctic

The first and so far only flag of the Antarctic is now ready for official publication. The German agency SchnappCom wishes to unite all interest groups around the Antarctic. The visualization of a uniform flag is conceptualized as the first comprehensive symbol with an official character. What initially started with researching the symbolism of international insignias, turned out to be a semiotic sensation, since researches for a prevalent flag have proved unsuccessful.

Meanwhile, the Antarctic has become a very important topic to the agency. Walter J. Schnapp, the owner of the agency, wishes to connect all Antarctic-engaged groups with the registered trademark. “By using and spreading a collective symbol we intend to strengthen people’s identification within the Antarctic community as a whole. Besides, we wish to draw the attention to preserving a territory that keeps heating up as a result of irresponsible human actions.“

The three core elements on the first flag of the Antarctic represent the main concerns of the subcontinent:

Peace:

Thanks to the treaty of 1959 between the twelve original signatories, any measures of military nature are prohibited. This makes the area a natural reserve devoted to peace and science.

Research:

The Antarctic is mainly being used for scientific purposes. It is characterized by constant change that is of worldwide relevance. One of the greatest natural threats to human nature, the ozone hole, was discovered in the Antarctic. 29 expedition teams from different nations are discovering the area and using it as a natural laboratory.

Protection:

Numerous NGO’s are already taking care of the diversity of species as well as preserving the peace on the cold continent. The Antarctic oceans are home to almost 10.000 unique and diverse species, like adélie penguins, petrels or mink whales. Most of these species can be solely found in the Antarctic. Their natural habitat is threatened by the consequences of climate change and they are therefore in need of protection.

In order to meet these main concerns of the Antarctic research, the logo was sent to the nations and organisations actively researching the space. Even representatives of the so called Consultative Parties may freely use the sign and thus identify themselves through the comprehensive symbol as a community.

Blue blood on ice – exceptional survival skills of the Antarctic octopus

An Antarctic octopus that lives in ice-cold water uses an unique strategy to transport oxygen in its blood, according to research published in Frontiers in Zoology. The study suggests that the octopus’s specialized blood pigments could help to make it more resilient to climate change than Antarctic fish and other species of octopus.

 

Click here for the latest press release:
Blue blood on ice how an antarctic octopus survives the cold

Antarctic Partnership – now on facebook!

The Antarctic Partnership Facebook-page is here!

Our little penguin Carin did not just win over the hearts, now she is taking over Facebook!

There you will find news about Antarctica, the latest research projects and much more!

Please feel free to like and share the page!

Sincerely,

your AA-Team

Sign the petition!

The oceans around Antarctica are the only oceans on this earth still relatively untouched by human activity. They are home to almost 10,000 unique and diverse species, many of which cannot be found anywhere else on the planet. But today the Antarctic waters are under threat. You can help us to ensure Antarctic Ocean habitats and wildlife are protected from human interference.

 

For more information see:
Antarctic Ocean Homepage