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South Pole

4. The Science of Ice Shelf Melt

Season 1, Ep. 4
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In this episode of South Pole, host Clark Marchese engages with Dr. Elin Darelius, an esteemed physical oceanographer, to unravel the complex behaviors of Antarctica’s ice shelves. Together, they explore the vital interactions between the ice shelves and the Southern Ocean, illuminating their pivotal role in regulating the global climate and the serious implications of their melting.


Dr. Darelius sheds light on the distinctions between ice shelves and ice sheets, discussing how the melting of ice shelves, although already part of the ocean, can significantly influence sea level rise and transform the ocean's physical properties, with potential repercussions for marine life. Additionally, the episode provides a fascinating glimpse into the techniques physical oceanographers employ to gather crucial data in the harsh Antarctic environment, enhancing our understanding of these critical processes.


Episode Guest: Dr. Elin Darelius

More information about Dr. Elin Darelius here. 

Browse Dr. Elin Darelius’ publications on Google Scholar

Follow Dr. Elin Darelius’ blog 

More information on polar research at the University of Bergen

More information on the Bjerknes Center for Climate Research

Find. Dr. Elin Darelius on Twitter/X: @DareliusElin

Read a photo novel about on of Dr. Darelius' Antarctic adventures.

More information on the research group FRISP


Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia

Hosted, produced, written, and edited by Clark Marchese 

Cover art and PFM logo by Laurel Wong. 

Theme music by Nela Ruiz

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