Enivronmental Animation for the British Antarctic Survey – Exploring the Polar Oceans
At Cass Productions, we specialise in environmental animation that brings scientific discovery to life through engaging and accessible visuals. One of our most exciting collaborations in this area was with the British Antarctic Survey (BAS), a globally respected research organisation delivering world-leading research in the Polar Regions
BAS needed a compelling, budget-friendly way to showcase their innovative work with marine robotics, without physically travelling to Antarctica. To solve this challenge, we created a suite of environmental animations that explained how robotic technologies are being used to uncover the secrets of the polar oceans.
Why Choose Enivornmental Animation?
Environmental animation is a highly effective way to communicate topics that are complex, remote, or technical. It allows researchers and organisations to:
Visualise inaccessible locations, like the deep sea or polar ice caps
Explain abstract scientific concepts in a way that is clear and engaging
Appeal to diverse audiences, from school children to scientific professionals
Reduce production costs while increasing creative flexibility
- Adapt content for multi-platform use, including social media, classrooms, and conferences
For this project, animation was not just a creative choice, it was the best strategic solution.
The Robots of the Deep – The Project Brief
The animation series we produced was part of a digital outreach initiative titled “Robots of the Deep.” BAS wanted to raise awareness of their cutting-edge robotic research, which involves using autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to gather data beneath polar ice shelves, places humans cannot safely or practically reach.
We were supplied with technical documentation, reference photos, and research insights from the BAS team. Our goal was to turn that complex information into an approachable narrative supported by high-quality environmental animation that could reach viewers of all ages and backgrounds.
Our Creative Process
Our team translated BAS’s research into a series of stylised, bold 2D animations that made the science understandable and compelling. Here’s how we brought their vision to life:
Detailed robot designs: Based on real engineering schematics
Atmospheric polar environments: Icy seas, marine creatures, and floating ice shelves
Clear voiceover narration: To guide viewers through each stage of the scientific process
Dynamic infographics: To break down how data is collected and used
Sound design and music: Carefully selected to match tone and enhance immersion
We also created shorter versions for social media clips, perfect for generating reach and engagement across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
End-to-End Environmental Animation Production
At Cass Productions, we managed the complete environmental animation process:
Research and concept development
Scriptwriting and storyboarding
Illustration and visual design
Animation and compositing
Voiceover casting and direction
Music selection and final mastering
Because of the strong collaboration with the BAS communications team, each stage of production was smooth, efficient, and on brand. We made sure the final content was accurate to the science and visually exciting for a wide audience.
Results and Audience Reaction
The animations have been used in schools, digital campaigns, science communication events, and public engagement programmes. BAS was thrilled with the outcome, and audiences responded positively to the clarity, energy, and accessibility of the content and were created from our office in Southampton, Hampshire.
This project reinforced how environmental animation can play a central role in science storytelling. By translating raw data and technical information into a narrative journey, we helped people connect with the critical work happening far beneath the polar ice.
Learn More and See Our Work
Looking for a creative partner for your next environmental animation project?
Explore our animation portfolio to seehow we bring science and sustainability stories to life across Hampshire and the UK.
Learn more about the British Antarctic Survey at https://www.bas.ac.uk/