Waste

Waste is one of the most important aspects of having a station in Antarctica.  This unique environment provides us with a superb stage for performing research that will hopefully reveal modes of operation in atmospheric chemistry.  We can use this so we can better understand how to fix the damage we have already caused and stop further global deterioration. The Antarctic Conservation Act is very strict about preserving the conditions in Antarctica.  What this law states is that there can be no effects left by man on any part of Antarctica.  This means no interacting with animals other than observation, no species can be introduced here, nothing can be removed and especially waste is highly regulated.  Everything must be sorted for return to South America, wood, glass, paper, plastic and organic waste.  Reasoning for collection of organic waste is due to accidental release of seeds, vegetable matter, soaps, and especially chemicals.  Yes there are chemicals in foods that are not allowed to be released into the Antarctic soils and water.  Our sewage processes all drain water to ensure no passage of these compounds.  Waste is very complicated and of the utmost importance.