Science & Knowledge
Tue. November 24, 6:30PM
The Belgica Today
From Antarctica 1897 to ocean science today, photographer Christian Clauwers follows Belgium’s scientific legacy at sea.
Photographer and explorer Christian Clauwers has joined scientific missions aboard Belgium’s research vessel, documenting the researchers, landscapes and work taking place at sea. His photographs offer a contemporary view of the scientific questions that have evolved since de Gerlache, from changing ocean ecosystems to climate and biodiversity.
Building on the story of the original Belgica expedition, this evening brings that legacy into the present: from the first Belgian expedition to Antarctica to the scientists studying our oceans today.
© Photo by Christian Clauwers / Belspo
speaker
Christian Clauwers
Christian Clauwers is a Belgian documentary photographer, explorer, and impact storyteller focused on the fragile relationship between humans and nature. For over a decade, he has captured the realities of climate change, biodiversity loss, and rising sea levels, using visual storytelling to connect science, policy, and industry.
With master’s degrees in Political Science and Global Management, Christian left a communications career to explore vulnerable ecosystems and collaborate on scientific expeditions across all five oceans. His work integrates marine science and indigenous knowledge, promoting global collaboration.
He has spoken on every continent—including Antarctica—and at major platforms such as the UN climate conferences, COP16 in Saudi Arabia, and European institutions. His seven books highlight environmental challenges, especially those facing island nations.
Christian’s photography has been exhibited worldwide, with access to places like the Svalbard Global Seed Vault and CERN. He is a Fellow of The Explorers Club, EU Climate Pact Ambassador, and member of the UN Ocean Decade Network. His work is archived in the Arctic World Archive and supports outreach for Belgium’s research vessel RV BELGICA.
