A legacy of exploration
In 1897, Belgian explorer Adrien de Gerlache and his international team of leading scientists embarked on the first scientific expedition to spend an entire winter in Antarctica with the objective to bring back essential scientific data for the understanding of these regions – a journey made possible thanks to the financial support of our founder Ernest Solvay, among others. This groundbreaking expedition paved the way for the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959, which, among other things, protects the freedom of scientific research on the continent, giving us the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the history of our planet and its climate.
Syensqo continues this legacy of exploration and innovation initiated by our founder. As explorers committed to protecting our planet, we actively support scientific research. This commitment extends to our sponsorship of 2050, which aligns with our vision for a sustainable future and amplifies our efforts to raise awareness about the urgent need for climate action.
An eye-opening expedition
2050 is a groundbreaking documentary that transports viewers to Antarctica, the world's southernmost continent, to explore the region’s critical role in helping us understand climate change.
Directed by the acclaimed Eric Goens and Kristof Van Den Bergh, the film seeks to provide answers to pressing climate questions and inspire action across generations, as we approach 2050: the year of our planet’s “tipping point”. Through stunning visuals and compelling narratives, 2050 highlights the urgent need to preserve our planet for future generations.
At the heart of Antarctic research
2050 takes us on an expedition to the Princess Elisabeth Station, Antarctica's first zero-emission research facility. Established by the Belgian state in collaboration with the International Polar Foundation, this beacon of science and sustainability provides the backdrop for groundbreaking research and exploration.
During the documentary, we meet a dedicated team of explorers and scientists, including Alain Hubert, Eric Rignot and Simon Steffen among others, who are at the forefront of climate research and innovation. Their work at the station provides invaluable insights into the health and fragility of our planet.
Meet the team
Eric Rignot - International Scientist
Born in France in 1961.. World authority in glaciology, he was the first to demonstrate the unprecedented rate at which Antarctic ice is melting. Lives in Los Angeles, California since his University studies. Professor at the University of California, Irvine and Academic Partner and Senior Research Scientist at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.
Alain Hubert - Explorer and Manager
Born in Belgium in 1953. Works in Antarctica from November until February, lives in Belgium and South Africa. Built the Belgian research station in East Antarctica: the Princess Elisabeth Base which is the first zero-emission building on the continent. His next dream is to build an ecological University in Antarctica (Andromeda).
Simon Steffen - International scientist
Born in Switzerland in 1990. Works in Antarctica from November until February and lives in Switzerland. His father was Konrad (Koni) Steffen, one of the first scientists who sounded the alarm about Greenland’s melting ice. Simon helps Alain Hubert to build a unique set of weather stations.
Helene De Gerlache - Granddaughter
Born in Belgium in 1961. Lives in Belgium. Daughter of Gaston de Gerlache and grandchild of Adrien de Gerlache, both explorers of the polar regions. More than 125 years after her grandfather she sets foot on the islands of Antarctica named by her grandfather.
Meet Eric Goens, reporter and director
Eric Goens, is an award-winning television producer renowned for his ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.
With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and emotional truth, Goens immerses viewers in the lives of his subjects, illuminating their stories with profound insight and empathy.
Through his distinctive approach to storytelling, he has garnered widespread acclaim and admiration, solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller in the world of documentary filmmaking.
Syensqo sponsors Belgian climate change documentary ‘2050’ filmed in Antarctica
Syensqo is the proud sponsor of the eye-opening documentary ‘2050’, referring to the symbolic tipping year for our planet.
Antarctica AND the tipping point with Eric Goens
In this episode, Eric talks about his masterpiece, a documentary called 2050 that takes us on an expedition to Princess Elizabeth Station.