What is the International Polar Foundation?
Founded in 2002 by Belgian polar explorer Alain Hubert, along with Prof. Hugo Decleir and Prof. André Berger, the International Polar Foundation (IPF) is a Brussels-based organization that bridges science and society. Recognized by Belgian Royal Statute as a foundation for the public good, it has HM King Philippe as its honorary president. The Foundation’s mission? To deepen our appreciation of science—especially polar research—by exploring the planet’s fragile interconnections, human impact on the environment, and the evolution of climate cycles spanning millennia.
Main Benefits and Key Facts
Here’s what makes the IPF stand out:
- Established in 2002 with HRH Prince (now King) Philippe as Honorary President
- Operates the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station—the world’s first zero-emission polar research station powered by wind and solar energy
- Supports scientists with logistics and fellowship awards for Antarctic research
- Hosts an annual Arctic Futures Symposium, featuring the Laurence Trân Arctic Futures Award, which grants €7,500 to young entrepreneurs or startups
- Pre-assembled the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station in Brussels in 2007, attracting 40,000 visitors before shipping it to Antarctica
- Inaugurated the Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station in 2009
- Founder Alain Hubert won the prestigious Belgica Prize in 2024 for his polar contributions
Polar Sciences and Climate Change
The scientific research conducted in the Arctic and Antarctic is crucial—it’s not just about ice and snow. These studies help communicate the realities of climate change and the urgent challenges societies face to reduce its impact. The polar regions act as a barometer for Earth’s health, revealing how interconnected and vulnerable our planet truly is.
Education and Outreach Efforts
Education is at the heart of the IPF’s mission. By informing citizens worldwide, the Foundation empowers people to make smarter, more sustainable choices. It’s about preparing younger generations to tackle the climate crisis head-on, through engaging classroom activities, science websites, and communication campaigns that make complex science accessible and relevant.
Innovation and Sustainability in Action
Technology to fight climate change isn’t some distant dream—it’s here, now. The Princess Elisabeth Antarctica station is a perfect example: a zero-emission research facility built in one of Earth’s harshest environments using existing renewable energy technologies. This project proves that sustainable innovation is not only possible but essential.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – through renewable-powered research stations
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by advancing polar science and climate awareness
- SDG 4: Quality Education – via outreach and educational programs
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – demonstrated by cutting-edge sustainable technologies
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – through collaboration with scientists, governments, and communities
Looking Ahead: The Future of Polar Research
Always pushing forward, the IPF is gearing up for its next big adventure: the Andromeda project. This will be the next-generation zero-emission polar research station, building on the success of Princess Elisabeth Antarctica. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a clear vision, the Foundation continues to lead the way in sustainable polar science, inspiring the world to rethink how we live with our planet.
