Overview
The 2041 Foundation is an environmental organisation founded by polar explorer and environmentalist Robert Swan OBE, the first person in history to walk to both the North and South Poles.
The organisation was established following Swan’s original expedition to the South Pole, which inspired a lifelong commitment to protecting the polar regions, particularly Antarctica, one of the last truly untouched places on Earth.
Antarctica is a continent dedicated to peace, science and the preservation of our planet, and sits at the heart of the Foundation’s work.
Over the past 30 years, the 2041 Foundation has been at the forefront of global efforts to protect this remarkable region and to raise awareness of the urgent need for climate action.
Mission and approach
The mission of the 2041 Foundation is to protect the polar regions by inspiring action on climate change.
Central to this mission is safeguarding the Antarctic Treaty and promoting international cooperation in the face of accelerating environmental change.
The organisation works to engage businesses, communities and individuals through a combination of climate science education, personal leadership development and the promotion of sustainable practices.
By connecting people directly with the realities of climate change, the Foundation aims to drive long-term behavioural change and environmental stewardship.
What they do
The 2041 Foundation delivers programmes that raise awareness of climate change and promote practical solutions, with a particular focus on:
- Climate science education
- Leadership development
- Recycling, renewable energy and sustainability initiatives
A flagship element of this work is the Foundation’s life-changing expeditions to Antarctica. These expeditions empower young leaders from around the world by giving them first-hand experience of the polar environment, alongside the knowledge, tools and inspiration needed to become advocates for a sustainable future.
The expeditions go beyond awareness-raising: they cultivate a global network of leaders committed to driving positive change within their own communities and industries.
Over the last two decades, Robert Swan has led more than 4,000 people from over 35 nations to the last great wilderness on Earth.
Through donations and supporter contributions, the Foundation is able to continue advancing these programmes, protect Antarctica, share its lessons globally, and help secure its future for generations to come.
Expedition and participation opportunities
The 2041 Foundation offers a range of expedition and participation opportunities designed to engage individuals directly with climate action and polar conservation.
Central to this are its Antarctic expeditions, which bring participants to the continent to learn about climate science, leadership and sustainability in one of the most environmentally significant places on Earth.
Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds and nationalities, united by a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Through immersive experiences, training and collaboration, these opportunities equip individuals, particularly emerging leaders, with the skills, confidence and global networks needed to drive meaningful change in their communities, organisations and industries.
In addition to expeditions, the Foundation provides educational programmes, talks and engagement opportunities that allow people to support and participate in its mission without travelling to Antarctica, ensuring broad and inclusive access to climate leadership pathways.
Last updated: December 2025.