icentials in the news

The telephone rings on the morning of Thursday 5 February. The editorial board of the NOS; whether they can have our reaction for the NOS News at 3 to the visit of Crown Prince Willem Alexander and Maxima to Antarctica.

They are visiting a scientific station on the peninsula, at the invitation of the NWO. The NWO wants more resources to be able to maintain the research programme in the Polar Regions at a good level after the International Polar Year has come to an end. We also think this is important. For example, we have developed a special programme for NWO in order to inspire future researchers. Have a look in our portfolio: www.icentials.com/site/portfolio/24

It is certain that the royal couple will be told about the importance of scientific research in the context of climate change, and the consequences for the Netherlands. In recent years, the Crown Prince has shown a great deal of interest in the Polar Regions, and we know that he is familiar with the material. NWO could not wish for a better ambassador for polar research.

Above all, the couple is certain to be moved by the majestic beauty of this unique region. It could hardly be any other way. (And this has now also been shown to be the case in the Crown Prince's blog.)

Would Marc want to say something about that and something about his experiences, looking ahead to the special journey? The agenda for this day is full to the brim, but we nevertheless make room for it; great fun to do. We dig out some archive material to accompany it. Willem Alexander himself played a role in a project that we carried out many years ago in Antarctica (Xpedition Cool). At that time, he gave a send-off to two Rangers of the Worldwide Fund for Nature. Philip de Roo and Laura Woltjer were already infected with the polar virus at the time.

The landing of Marc and his colleague Wilco van Rooijen on Antarctica at the end of 2000 was also spectacular. The NOS was keen to show the footage. Luckily, the royal couple's flight to Rothera Station went more smoothly.