Interview: "Antarctic ice retreat due to climate change could release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas"

In this interview, iC3 PhD student Emeric Babut du Marès describes his work on methane cycling beneath the Antarctic Ice Sheet and tells more about his quest for justice, calm and adventures.

First of all, can you describe yourself briefly, what you're doing here, and why it is important?

My name is Emeric Babut du Marès, I am a PhD student at iC3 working on potential methane reservoirs beneath Antarctica. Millions of years ago, Antarctica was covered by forests. As the climate cooled and the Antarctic ice sheet formed 35 million years ago, these were buried as carbon in sediments.

Over time, the carbon decomposed into methane and, under favourable conditions of temperature and pressure, it became methane hydrates. Eventually more methane where added by thermogenic production under the ice sheet and by the carbon degradation from ocean biological activity in marine sediments.

As the Antarctic ice retreats due to climate change, these hydrates are predicted to destabilise, as in the Arctic. This could release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas, into the water column and possibly into the atmosphere, increasing global warming.

Photo credit: Emeric Babut du Marès

How do you study this methane reservoir?

I am a modeller, which means that I use models and published data to investigate my research question. I use model simulations of past and future environmental conditions of the Antarctic ice sheet, such as ice thickness and sediment temperature, to understand the methane reservoir and its vulnerability.

As the data I use are modelled, uncertainty is an important aspect of my research. Still, models remain very useful because they help us fill in gaps where data are sparse by estimating conditions across time and space.

Why did you choose to study environmental sciences?

I initially studied economics, but switched after my bachelor's degree after reading about the environmental crisis, human behavior, and society. I wanted to understand and address global environmental issues, which led me to environmental science.

How do you experience working in communications alongside your research?

[Note: Emeric supports iC3's communications work.]

It’s busy but rewarding. I meet many people, learn about their research, and expand my network. For example, I’ve interviewed colleagues while they were sampling cores and learned about non-destructive and destructive analysis methods. It’s fascinating to explore areas outside my expertise and gain insights into different scientific approaches.

Aside your studies and work, you have been involved in the Scouts. Can you tell us about your involvement?

I spent 18 years in the Scouts, including six years as a leader. It taught me practical skills, autonomy, and self-confidence while connecting me with nature and lifelong friends. It was a unique experience that has certainly influenced the way I think now.

Picture: Emeric and the rest of the staff at his last Scouts camp. Photo credit: Arthur Pion

You also like to attend demonstrations for social and environmental causes. What makes you go?

Justice—environmental and social justice. I often feel strongly about injustice and strive to find balance. It’s a significant motivator for me to act and make a difference. I dream of a world where everyone could have equal opportunities in life.

If you have a day off, what would be the best way to spend it?

I'd wake up a little late, but not too late, because I enjoy my morning routine, which includes meditation, stretching and a quiet meal. I'd also read, go out to meet some friends, walk in nature, go kayaking, hiking or swimming.

Picture: Emeric and his friends kayaking. Photo credit: Peter-Lasse Giertzuch

What are you looking forward to in the next year?

Professionally, I want to complete a solid draft of my research. Personally, I want to achieve a better work-life balance, improve my Norwegian and English, and work on emotional management through meditation. It’s about growing both as a young researcher and as an adult.

Do you have a life motto?

Take things step by step. Starting small and progressing steadily helps achieve big goals without feeling overwhelmed. It’s a simple but effective approach to life.

Emeric Babut du Marès is an iC3 PhD student at the Arctic University of Norway in Tromsø, the capital of the Arctic. To find out more about his work, please check out his list of publications, or contact him by email or LinkedIn.