A B O U T    S A N A P

In 2003, Cabinet approved the transfer of the scientific research functions of SANAP from the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) to the Department of Science and Technology (DST). DEAT however retains responsibility for all logistics and infrastructure. The National Research Foundation (NRF) becomes the agency responsible for grant making on behalf of the DST. SANAP slips neatly into the NRF's vision of bringing knowledge to life, especially its aim of 'a prosperous South Africa and African continent both steeped in a knowledge culture and proud contributors to the well-being of humanity'.

Objectives

SANAP plays a crucial role in conserving this living laboratory - the coldest, windiest and driest place on Earth. Studies done in the Antarctic are inextricably linked to our understanding of the entire Earth system and signals in Antarctica indicate past and future global changes. SANAP recognises the global and national importance of safeguarding the environment of the Antarctic and Southern Ocean and protecting the integrity of ecosystems, both marine and terrestrial, in the region. The programme takes cognisance of the presence of natural resources (both renewable and non-renewable) and the increased interest in their possible utilisation (both consumptive and non-consumptive).

The new challenges

Funding of Antarctic research has come a long way since The Royal Society of South Africa presented a token 25 pounds to Robert F Scott towards scientific work on his 1913 expedition to Antarctica. South Africa's funding of research connected to the Antarctic received a 30% boost in 2004/2005 and DEAT has committed itself to increasing its annual funding to R10 million in the near future.

As of 2005, DEAT and DST have agreed to some exciting additions to the research opportunities offered by SANAP. The research community is challenged to "break the ice" (without the SA Agulhas this time) and thrash out creative ideas and new directions. Researchers in the social sciences (politics, international relations, and sociologists), humanities (literary studies, visual arts and cultural studies) and law (Law of the Sea) as well as engineering can now participate in SANAP.

The new research themes for SANAP are:

• Antarctica: A Window into Geospace
• Climate Variability: Past, Present and Future
• Biodiversity Responses to Earth System Variability
• Engineering a Sustainable Presence in Antarctica
• The History, Sociology and Politics of Antarctic Research and Exploration

As a biodiversity hotspot, scientific activities in Antarctica, the islands and the Southern Ocean have never been more exciting. The controversial issues of tourism, krill harvesting, bioprospecting and mining; the avenues for law research; the possibility of a virtual national facility or 'Antarctic institute'; the opportunities offered by competitive advantage; the threat of pollution; research into other human impacts and plans to draw industry into the SANAP equation all present research opportunities.