The role ocean science plays in the future of the Arctic discussed at the Arctic Circle Assembly

We were delighted to be in Reykjavik, Iceland last week at the Arctic Circle Assembly, to discuss the future of the Arctic and the role that ocean science plays in discovering more about this.

Our Chief Scientist Penny Holliday and Dr Jo Hopkins, one of our physical oceanographers who is leading our Arctic work, have just returned from a busy and productive few days in Reykjavik which included plenty of energising conversations about international collaboration on supporting the Arctic, the importance of indigenous-led conversations and fora, and the role that ocean science plays in supporting the future of the Arctic. NOC is currently developing a new Arctic strategy which focuses on our contribution to Arctic ocean scientific research and the role of international collaboration, and we were delighted to take part in this year’s Assembly.

It was positive to hear the Minister for Europe, North America and Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty MP, highlight the strong UK commitment to Arctic Council cooperation and the need to tackle the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. It was encouraging to hear him discuss the UK’s science and research ship capability, and we look forward to supporting the Minister and UK Government, alongside international collaborative partners, on these issues. It was also fantastic to meet and speak to representatives from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the British Embassy in Iceland, including the British Ambassador to Iceland, Dr Bryony Mathew .

Thank you to all the organisers and looking forward to continued conversations on this incredibly important topic.