Local contamination is minimal as are regional-scale sources and sinks. The nearest urbanization is 3000 miles away and the nearest land biota is 2500 miles away. Because contamination sourses are distant, the air measured at the South Pole is very well mixed and is extremely clean. When compared to measurements made elsewhere around the globe, it is the background air of the planet. There is a very high frequency of wind from the Clean Air Sector.
Data capture is very high and collection of a long term continuous record is greatly facilitated.
The water vapor concentration in the atmosphere is extremely small. The South Pole will remain an excellent baseline site as there will be no development upwind. It will only be through long-term, continuous monitoring of all areas of the climate budget that we will be able to determine trends. As we gather more information, we will be able to develop and analyze atmospheric and ocean models more correctly. As we obtain more accurate information, we as individuals, as a nation, and as a world body will be able to use this scientifically based information to make sound decisions that will effect the quality of life for generations to come.