Ibex Expeditions Private Ltd., launched a global advocacy campaign #AntarcticaMatters. This was initially conceived in 2017 on the Ibex Expeditions maiden journey to the 7th Continent spearheaded by Mandip Singh Soin FRGS and Anita Soin. A second journey with 69 Members was undertaken in February 2026 on the ship Ocean Explorer by Quark Expeditions.
This initiative is focused on raising awareness about the protection of Antarctica under the Antarctic Treaty System, which currently prohibits mining and commercial exploitation of the continent. With the treaty due for review in 2048, the campaign highlights the urgency for governments, civil society, travellers, and global organisations to push for the continuation of its protective framework.
Antarctica plays a crucial role as a regulator of Earth’s climate. Disturbances in this fragile ecosystem could lead to far-reaching consequences such as rising sea levels and unstable weather patterns affecting countries worldwide.
Antarctica isn’t just a land of ice; it’s a continent shaped by courage and ambition. From Shackleton’s legendary fight for survival to the race between Scott and Amundsen to reach the Pole, these frozen landscapes are rich with tales of endurance. With the Antarctic Treaty coming up for review in 2048, the year that marks review of long-term environmental measures to preserve the continent, today is the time to actively contribute towards environmental protection and conservation efforts.
We come together with a shared team spirit to raise awareness about this fragile wilderness through collaboration and collective action.
Leading law firms Luthra and Luthra Law Offices India and AZB & Partners are supporting this campaign pro bono, helping advance legal petitions to governments and international organizations.
The organisations that support this initiative are:
1. Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)
2. Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)
3. PATA India Chapter
4. World Travel & Trade Association (WTTC II)
5. SKAL International
6. SKAL International India/SKAL Delhi
7. Union Internationale Des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA)
8. Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI)
9. Inlaks Foundation
10. St. Stephens College
11. Ibex Expeditions
12. Make my Trip
13. Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW)
14. Nanhi Chhaan Foundation
Various organisations backing reflects a shared commitment to responsible tourism, environmental stewardship, and informed advocacy. The collaboration also emphasizes how responsible travel can serve as a powerful tool for spreading conservation
awareness and encouraging global responsibility.
As part of this responsible tourism effort, this journey organized by Ibex Expeditions, India required all participants to take a Polar Pledge, committing them to actively support Antarctica’s protection and promote awareness within their own communities.
