Antarctica

The center of the earth,

still seldom given importance, 

in our popular narratives, 

we never discuss in details.

Antarctica . . .

This cold, frigid place,

an isolated landmass,

seen on the maps,

but plays a big role,

in maintaining climate system.

For, they directly connect,

regulate every ocean basin,

as Antarctic circumpolar current,

linking Indian, pacific & Atlantic,

act as engine for deep waters,

manufacturing dense, coldest water,

to be spread northwards across the plains.

Antarctica . . .

The planetary heat sink,

reflecting 80% of solar radiations,

from vast white surface (albedo effect),

maintain earth's thermal equilibrium, 

while absorbing 40% of carbon emissions,

the ocean conveyor belt transports heat,

by driving global thermohaline circulation. 

So, let us be grateful,

for the researchers who discovered, 

bringing governments on same table,

sign Antarctic treaty to prevent colonization, 

and Madrid protocol, banning exploitation, 

working tirelessly to protect . . .

The heart of our planet!

P.S. It played a big role in discovery and repair of hole in ozone layer.