Professor David Walton began work in 1967 with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). He is now an Emeritus Fellow at BAS, publishing papers and books on many aspects of Antarctica. Professor Walton represented the international Antarctic scientific community at Antarctic Treaty Meetings for 14 years and was awarded the first SCAR medal for International Scientific Coordination. He was also awarded a Polar Medal by the Queen. The author of more than 100 scientific papers, and more than 250 reviews, popular articles and reports, he has also written and edited several books and has been the editor in chief of the international journal Antarctic Science for the last 25 years.
Advance praise: 'From 'why is Antarctica so dry?' to the current state of the Antarctic Treaty, and everything conceivable in-between (history, geology, oceanography, biology, climate-change and much more), this is the book if you want to understand the significance of Antarctica for the future of Planet Earth. Well illustrated, and well written - I felt completely up-to-date when I finished reading it.' Professor Sir John Lawton CBE FRS, Former Chair, Royal Commission on Environment Pollution Advance praise: 'This is an excellent review of key multidisciplinary collaborative research and geopolitics in Antarctica involving more than 30 countries, addressing global issues in climate, oceans, biodiversity, solar system, tourism and more. Of importance to contemporary society, it is a valued compendium.' Dr Alan K. Cooper, Stanford University, and recipient of the second SCAR medal for International Scientific Coordination Advance praise: 'Antarctica is a conundrum. It is distant, yet it will shape our children's future; it is mysterious, yet a treasure trove for science; it is the focus of calculated geopolitical interest, yet the exemplar of 'world governance'. In this well-presented and readable book, the world's leading experts on Antarctic science showcase why the uninhabited seventh continent is central to the present and future of human interests and wellbeing.' Professor Chris Rapley CBE, University College London, former Director, British Antarctic Survey, and former President, SCAR