Arctic and Himalayas, Arctic Law and Carbon Capture in Norwegian Seabed

Dear readers,

Last week I traveled to India to speak at The International Seminar on Environment, Culture, and Ethnic Diversity: Narratives from Himalayas and Sub-Himalayan Regions that took place on the 15th and 16th of December 2023 at the Conference Hall, University of North Bengal, Darjeeling, India. The main purpose of this seminar was to address the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Indian Himalayan Region, recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. Inhabited by numerous indigenous and ethnic groups, the Himalayan region faces challenges such as climate change, population growth, unplanned urbanization, and developmental activities, posing threats to both the environment and society.

The seminar aimed to explore the ethnographic variety and distinct Himalayan worldview resulting from diverse cultural adaptations in response to the region's varied climate and terrain. Key topics included the alarming environmental conditions, loss of biodiversity, and critical issues concerning air, water, and land quality in the Himalayan region.

Together with Professor Ritva Kylli from University of Oulu and Professor Kamrul Hossain , PhD Candidate in Law Sara Fusco and Postdoctoral Researcher Marlene Almonte Payva from Arctic Centre, University of Lapland , we have contributed to the seminar by providing linkages to the changes happening in the Arctic and in the third pole regions. This collaboration aims to broaden the scope of discussions and foster a more comprehensive understanding of the environmental and cultural dynamics in these interconnected regions.

Current Developments in Arctic Law

The collection of articles "Current Developments in Arctic Law" edited by Professor Kamrul Hossain in cooperation with the UArctic Thematic Network on Arctic Law & UArctic Chair in Arctic Legal Research & Education.was launched in December 2023 with the main theme of the 11th volume "Interpolar perspectives: connecting the Arctic with the Third Pole". The volume covers topics such as comparative analysis, protected area governance challenges, and the impact of the International North-South Transport Corridor on Arctic resource development and Russian foreign policy.

The Arctic and the Third Pole region share commonalities in addressing governance challenges, such as studying communities and their evolving environments, managing disaster-related risks, and addressing social concerns related to livelihood provisions. Additionally, both regions present opportunities for collaboration in scientific and technological innovations aimed at studying climate change and mitigating its effects.

However, notable differences exist between the two regions. These distinctions encompass demographic and land use challenges, the complexity of cultural diversity, and unique issues related to poverty, food security, and energy access. Recognizing both the similarities and differences is crucial for developing effective governance strategies that address the specific needs and complexities of each region.

In her article titled "Inadvertently connecting the first and third poles: the role of the International North-South Transport Corridor in Arctic resource development and Russian foreign policy," Tina Soliman Hunter explores the interplay between the International North-South Transport Corridor, Arctic resource development, and Russian foreign policy. The publication focuses on Russia's foreign policy regarding the Arctic, highlighting a commitment to peaceful resolution of international issues in the region. It emphasizes the pursuit of mutually beneficial cooperation with non-Arctic states involved in international activities in the Arctic, with a specific focus on infrastructure development for the Northern Sea Route. Additionally, it highlights Russia's geopolitical pivot eastward to trading partners such as China and Japan, as well as deepening alliances with Iran and India, indicating Russia's efforts to strengthen its position as a strong and independent actor in international affairs.

Carbon Capture, Transport, and Storage Projects in Norwegian Seabed

I am happy to share with you my recent book chapter publication "Carbon Capture, Transport, and Storage Projects in Norwegian Seabed: Sustainable Implications and Challenges of New Green Technologies Rooted in the Past" publication co-authored with Antonina Tsvetkova

The accumulation of greenhouse gases, more specifically carbon emissions, in the environment has resulted in severe health issues and climate change. Great efforts are being made to minimize the adverse effects of CO2 by using renewable energy sources and carbon capture technologies, with transport components and management of CO2 supply chains constituting a breakthrough in developing climate-resilient carbon cycles. However, there is a critical need to analyze whether the effect is sustainable. This chapter explores how supply chain management facilitates the implementation and further institutionalization of the world’s sustainable and climate strategies in the North Sea, with subsequent application in the Arctic Ocean.

Data from eight semi-structured interviews and archival materials were analyzed in terms of the economic, environmental, and social aspects of sustainable development. The findings revealed that international and European law are not yet prepared to accept CO2 transit by ship. However, the effect of huge political pressure reflects what has been politically feasible, not what is desirable from a sustainability point of view. Substantial investments have been channeled into carbon capture, transport, and storage (CCTS) projects that include infrastructure construction, e.g., piping and terminals, but, at the same time, there is growing concern about the negative environmental and social impacts of CCTS projects on coastal communities and Indigenous Peoples.

The chapter also addresses a number of the legal and commercial challenges CCTS projects in Norway have to overcome in response to political ambitions. Further, social “values and attitudes” are highlighted as factors that can be significant for the acceptance and further development of carbon capture, transport, and storage projects. The study provides an understanding of how new supply chain practices emerge by responding to political ambitions and institutional factors.

This chapter will be soon released as Open Access, so stay tuned!

Wishing you all relaxing Christmas time with your loved ones!

Yours,

Alexandra Middleton