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Marine ecological research
in a political landscape
There are long-standing traditions for international cooperation in Arctic science. The rst International Polar Year took place already in 1882-83, involving scientists from many countries. Subsequent International Polar Years were held in 1932-33, 1957-58 and 2007-2008. International science cooperation in the Arctic Ocean developed slowly during the Cold War (1947–1991), but the subsequent political thaw has promoted cooperation. The joint international research cooper- ation across borders in the Arctic Ocean is though somewhat limited. The Arctic Ocean is a vast body of water that cannot be understood or managed solely based on national sectors. Consequently, circumpolar integration and international coopera- tion is required and it is essential that such cooperation is cross-border and in line with the patterns of ice drift and ocean currents in the Arctic Ocean. The Arctic Council signed an “Agreement on Enhancing International Arctic Scienti c Coop- eration” which will promote the pan-arctic cooperation across the Polar Ocean.
The management of ecosystems and resources should be based on knowledge. State authorities should demand that companies seeking to operate in the Arctic develop and understand sustainable development strategies before awarding licenses for com- mercial activities. Unfortunately, there is currently insuf cient knowledge about the seasonal ice zone to assess sustainable development. More research in sensitive Arctic areas is required, which is a prerequisite for Norway and other Arctic coastal nations.
SOURCE: IBRU, Durham University, UK
- www.durham.ac.uk/ibru/resources/arctic