The 2041 Foundation

“In the year 2041, the fate of Antarctica will be decided. Join us for the remaining 20 years to ensure we have the sense to leave one place on Earth untouched.” — Robert Swan, 2041 Foundation Founder

Robert Swan’s first walk to the South Pole inspired him to create the 2041 Foundation. The organization’s name refers to the year when the Antarctic Treaty that currently protects the continent can be opened for review.

The foundation works to inform and inspire the next generation of leaders to protect polar regions and preserve Antarctica as the last great wilderness on Earth. The foundation also advocates for sustainable public policies, personal lifestyles, business practices and innovative technologies.

Impact

The foundation supports Robert’s expeditions in which he demonstrates the viability of clean energy and sustainable resources. If these innovative solutions work for Robert and teams in the most inhospitable environment on the planet, then other people can use them anywhere on Earth.

The 2041 Foundation also works in three other key areas:

Youth Development

The 2041 team has engaged with hundreds of schools around the world and empowered millions of young people to take up the cause of sustainability and protecting Antarctica. These youth represent a diverse range of countries including Argentina, Australia, China, France, India, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, and the United States. Through ongoing educational outreach, the foundation has made the story of sustainability and the preservation of our planet relevant and engaging for younger minds.

International Antarctic Expeditions (IAE)

The 2041 Foundation works to assist promising leaders of any background to help them become climate champions in their home communities and countries. Since 1997, the foundation has conducted dozens of expeditions to both Antarctica and the Arctic regions. These journeys equip participants with actionable solutions to become a part of a global force for change. The goal is to train new generations of environmental leaders on climate change and sustainability.

Many of these early Climate Champions have become heads of businesses, government, and communities as environmental leaders who are committed to protecting our planet. Supporters can donate to the 2041 Foundation’s scholarship program, which provides financial aid to many expeditioners.

Community Outreach

Over the last 40 years, Robert Swan has traveled to more than 160 countries to address business, government and community leaders about the impacts of climate change. He has spoken in front of presidents at Earth Summits and children in their classrooms. In addition to educating on sustainability and inspiring audiences about the future of our planet, Swan provides insight on leadership, innovation, overcoming challenges, team building, and corporate social responsibility.

ALUMNI

2041 Alumni was established in 2005 to maintain and enhance a highly engaged, vibrant community of alumni worldwide. The program helps people who have participated in one of Robert’s expeditions stay connected with each other in their work to inspire each other as well as future generations to preserve Antarctica, and thus, protect the Earth.

Today, 2041 Alumni comprises more than 4,000 people. Individually and as a team, we believe we can make a difference.

SUPPORT

Your Support Makes all the Difference!

With your financial help, 2041 Foundation can continue to foster environmentally responsible leaders and advocates, spread education on sustainability, and maintain the Earth’s most important natural environments for generations to come.

Every donation takes us one step closer to preserving the pristine Antarctic continent, securing it for the future beyond the year 2041.