The 2024 SCAR Open Science Conference, themed “Antarctic Science: Crossroads for a New Hope,” brought together researchers, advocates, and experts in Pucón, Chile, from 19-23 August to address pressing issues in Antarctic research and global sustainability. Juliana Alves Kavai from the Instituto Gelo na Bagagem São Paulo, Brazil, documented her experience in a meeting report, highlighting the scientific and personal impact of the conference.
Her report underscored the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration across SCAR’s research domains—Geosciences, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Humanities—particularly in efforts to understand and protect Antarctic ecosystems. She was especially inspired by sessions focused on marine biodiversity, pollution, and the role of sea ice, emphasising how a diverse, inclusive approach to research can create more impactful, community-focused solutions to challenges like climate change.
Beyond scientific learning, Juliana’s report conveyed the profound human connections she experienced. She described the conference as life-changing, allowing her to connect with a global community of researchers and advocates in a welcoming environment. This sense of unity and shared purpose, she observed, was just as valuable as the scientific knowledge exchanged, providing hope and a reminder of the collaborative spirit driving SCAR’s mission.