The climate crisis is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and Patrick Gower’s latest documentary, Patrick Gower: On Ice, delves deep into this urgent issue, now available for streaming on ThreeNow. This two-part series takes viewers on a compelling journey to Antarctica, a critical barometer of our planet’s health, to explore the harsh realities and potential solutions to climate change.
A Journey to the Ice
In this eye-opening documentary, Gower travels to the icy expanse of Antarctica, a region that holds a critical position in the global climate system. The continent’s vast ice sheets contain approximately 70% of the world’s freshwater, making its stability crucial for global sea levels. The series provides an in-depth look at how this vital area is changing, with scientists delivering a stark message: Antarctica is melting at an alarming rate.
Throughout the series, Gower interacts with scientists who are both alarmed and hopeful. Professor Jordi Hendrikx, Chief Scientific Advisor for Antarctic NZ, emphasises the urgent need for action. The melting ice is contributing to rising sea levels and more extreme weather events, as witnessed by the devastating impact of Cyclone Gabrielle in New Zealand. Despite these dire warnings, Hendrikx and his colleagues remain optimistic about our ability to slow down the damage.
Hope Amidst Despair
Patrick Gower: On Ice is not just a tale of doom and gloom; it highlights potential solutions and hopeful developments in the fight against climate change. One unexpected source of hope comes from the world of algae. In Antarctica, Gower meets Emiliano and J C, two young scientists exploring the potential of algae to adapt to warmer seas. Their work could offer insights into how we might cope with and mitigate the effects of a warming planet.
Back in New Zealand, Gower visits CH4 Global in Bluff, where researchers are cultivating Asparagopsis seaweed. This native algae has the potential to revolutionise cattle feed and drastically cut methane emissions—a significant contributor to global warming. The use of seaweed in cattle feed might seem like a small-scale solution, but in the face of the climate crisis, every innovation counts.
The Reality of Ice Loss
One of the most striking elements of the documentary is the portrayal of the tangible effects of climate change. Gower observes record-low seasonal sea ice in Antarctica, which acts as a protective barrier for the massive ice sheets. The potential melting of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet could lead to a catastrophic rise in sea levels, estimated to be as much as four metres. Associate Professor Inga Smith describes this scenario as a “nightmare,” underscoring the severe consequences of unchecked climate change.
The series also features personal stories from individuals affected by climate change. In Karekare, Gower meets Amber, a survivor of Cyclone Gabrielle, whose house was swept away in the storm. Her story illustrates the human cost of climate change and the urgent need for adaptation and resilience.
A Call to Action
Patrick Gower: On Ice delivers a powerful message: the climate crisis demands both adaptation to inevitable changes and bold experimentation to mitigate further damage. The series underscores the importance of global and local actions, from innovative solutions in algae cultivation to grassroots activism, in addressing one of the most significant challenges of our time.
By combining a detailed examination of the scientific realities with stories of human resilience and innovation, Gower’s documentary offers a comprehensive view of the climate crisis and a call to action for viewers around the world.
Patrick Gower: On Ice is available to stream now on ThreeNow.