Scientists are preparing for the largest ever Australian-led environmental clean-up of Antarctica.
Over the coming years, field teams equipped with drones, steam-driven ice drills and field analytical equipment will be deployed to each of Australia's Antarctic and sub-Antarctic research stations to assess the extent, risk and impact of legacy waste and contamination.
Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) Principle Environmental Toxicologist Dr Catherine King said the program aims to better understand the environment at risk, prioritise sites for clean-up, and help determine what tools and technologies will eventually be needed for the job.
"Over the next five years, contaminated sites across Australia's Antarctic Territory will be examined, including the former Wilkes station," Dr King said.
"This is about understanding what is there and the effect it's having on the local Antarctic environment."
"Then, based on environmental risk, prioritising which sites need to be addressed first, all the while making sure we don't make the situation worse."
Samples and data from extensive field work will then be analysed at the Australian Antarctic Division in Tasmania, in collaboration with research partners throughout Australia and internationally.
This increased ability will add to efforts already underway at Casey research station.
