On 4 May 2023, CSIR senior researcher and biological oceanographer Dr Tommy Ryan-Keogh takes to the stage at TEDx Johannesburg Countdown with his talk, titled “A changing Southern Ocean: the impact of climate change”. Media statement

The CSIR is proud to be contributing towards empowering the public at TEDxJohannesburg in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics field by sharing an understanding of how and where climate change may be impacting the natural carbon cycle in the Southern Ocean, and the role of iron (an essential nutrient) in phytoplankton – microscopic plants that live in the surface sunlit waters and assist in the removal of atmospheric carbon dioxide through photosynthesis.

The Southern Ocean’s story is significant because of its role in absorbing a significant proportion of the human-made carbon dioxide emitted through the burning of fossil fuels, and the excess heat generated by the greenhouse effect.

It is anticipated that Ryan-Keogh’s talk will allow the audience an opportunity to reflect on the relationship with nature, South Africa’s longstanding scientific contributions to Antarctica, and gain deeper insight into the extensive ocean that surrounds Antarctica. The Southern Ocean connects the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific Oceans to one another, highlighting that the oceans provide essential ecosystem services to all life on Earth.

The event offers an opportunity to shine the spotlight on not only the importance of the Southern Ocean, but also the evidence from a new research study that indicates that the increase in iron stress in phytoplankton is affecting its growth negatively, with the majority of the Southern Ocean becoming less productive over time. To ensure that future generations inherit a climate-safe future, we need to protect our natural ecosystems and transition to greener societies that can sustain everyone.

Recently, members of the public were encouraged to celebrate Earth Day, which was held on 22 April 2023 and celebrated under the theme “Invest in our Planet”. Following Ryan-Keogh’s  talk at TEDxJohannesburg, environmental and climate enthusiasts can also look forward to gearing up for the global celebration of the International Day for Biological Diversity that will be observed on 22 May 2023, with the key message “From Agreement to Action: Build Back Biodiversity”.

Raise your Southern Ocean awareness and act for its protection by using #JoinTheCountdown #ClimateChange and #TeamCSIR on all social media platforms.

Secure your seat by purchasing your ticket for the TEDxJohannesburg Countdown event.

Learn more at https://www.tedxjohannesburg.com/