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The complex Arctic system is undergoing change that is both rapid and unprecedented in human history. Arctic climate change, new pathways for pollution, ecosystem and societal changes are a consequence of multiple drivers, including global population growth, increasing energy demand and associated greenhouse gas emissions, as well as economic development within the Arctic region. The interactions between the Arctic and the rest of the World, in particular with respect to the Arctic climate system, are becoming increasingly recognized. For the past 25-years, AMAP has been at the forefront of work that has raised awareness both in the Arctic and globally about Arctic environmental issues, and provided Arctic policy- and decision-makers with sound science-based information with which to approach an ever expanding number of challenges. AMAP’s work has already contributed to actions, including the agreement of international pollution and climate-related Conventions that are making demonstrable progress in reducing Arctic contamination and threats of future impacts, but much remains to be done. As one of the Arctic Council’s Working Groups, AMAP is committed to supporting future activities, both under the Arctic Council and, with direction from the Arctic Council, through other international fora to the protect the Arctic environment and improve the health of Arctic ecosystems and human populations. AMAP work to
- monitor and assess the status of the Arctic region with respect to pollution and climate change issues;
- document levels and trends, pathways and processes, and effects on ecosystems and humans, and propose actions to reduce associated threats for consideration by governments;
- produce sound science-based, policy-relevant assessments to inform policy and decision-making processes continues to develop in new directions.
The AMAP Anniversary seminar will examine some of the major scientific achievements of AMAP in different subject areas, consider cooperation with international partners, and most importantly look to AMAPs future possible role in addressing new environmental challenges in the region, including AMAP’s potential to support work under the program of the Chairmanship of Finland for the Arctic Council 2017-2019.
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