ArcticNet publishes regional impact study for the Western and Central Canadian Arctic

ArcticNet, which the University of Manitoba is a member of,  has published From Science to Policy in the Western and Central Canadian Arctic: An Integrated Regional Impact Study of Climate Change and Modernization.

The publication is the result of years of research and consultation to identify environmental, health and societal vulnerabilities and climate change adaptation priorities for Northerners living in the Inuvialuit Settlement Region, the North Slope of Yukon and Herschel Island and the Kitikmeot region of Nunavut.

“This assessment is unique in that not only does it synthesize some of the most up-to‐date climate-related knowledge within the region and present it in a form that is understandable by non‐scientific audiences, but that it was developed at all stages in close collaboration with the people who live in the North and deal with adaptation issues on a day-‐to-day basis,” explained Gary Stern, co‐editor of the study and professor in the Clayton H. Riddell Faculty of Environment, Earth, and Resources, University of Manitoba.

The 432‐page study includes 10 detailed topic‐defined chapters covering marine contaminants, human health, travel and navigation, food and cultural security and resource development. Also included in the document is a Synthesis and Recommendations that highlights the key priorities and interests identified by stakeholders in the regions. The synthesis will also be available as a stand‐alone document in English, French, Uummarmiutun, Siglitun, Inuinnaqtun, and Inuktitut (both roman orthography and syllabics).

The Western and Central Arctic study will be presented to some of the Network’s key stakeholders at the Beaufort Sea Partnership meeting taking place on October 27 in Inuvik, Northwest Territories.

For more information contact: Dr. Gary Stern (gary.stern@umanitoba.ca)  or Ashley Gaden (ashley.gaden@umanitoba.ca)