Ozone depletion occurs due to chlorine and bromine released from human activities. Global ozone levels decreased by 5% between 1970 and mid-1990s. Largest decreases occur in polar regions, especially Antarctica. UV radiation increases, leading to skin cancer and immune system damage
List includes 49 sovereign states from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe. Disputed countries are listed at the bottom. Countries are categorized into A through Z sections
Drake Passage connects South America's Cape Horn to Antarctica's South Shetland Islands. Named after Sir Francis Drake, who discovered it in 1578. First navigated by Willem Schouten in 1616. First rowed across passage by six explorers in 2019
Vostok Station in Antarctica set ground-level record at −89.2 °C in 1983. Satellite measurements in 2010 showed −92 °C at 3,900 m elevation. High Antarctic locations reach approximately −98 °C surface temperatures
Located on Ross Island, Antarctica, at 3,792 metres elevation. Second-highest volcano in Antarctica after Mount Sidley. Contains persistent phonolitic lava lake since early 1970s. Features numerous ice fumaroles and dark caves
Antarctica has the coldest climate on Earth with average annual precipitation of 166 mm. The highest recorded temperature was 19.8°C at Signy Island in 1982. The lowest temperature recorded was −89.2°C at Vostok Station in 1983. Coastal areas are warmer, with average temperatures around −10°C