Arctic Ocean
Scientists issue warning on future of central Arctic 
(Cambridge University press release, 18 April 2009) -- Scientists have warned that world leaders are in a race against time to make key decisions about the future of international co-operation in the Arctic. In a new policy paper researchers argue that the international community has a waning opportunity to establish the central Arctic as an area of peaceful, trans-national governance before sovereign interests and commercial activities accelerate with the disappearing sea ice. The paper will be presented by Dr Paul Berkman from the University of Cambridge to the Aspen Commission on Arctic Climate Change in Monaco this weekend. The Commission includes scientists and policy experts and will make recommendations for the future of international co-operation in the Arctic. The article also appears in the new issue of the journal Science.
Posted 21 April 2009; 1:10:31 PM. Permalink
Tagged: Arctic Ocean, Circumpolar cooperation, Circumpolar News, International, Laws and legal
Arctic team write in snow to communicate
(Louise Robertson/The Guardian, 21 April 2009) -- Explorers on the Caitlin Arctic Survey expedition have come up with a novel way of communicating, according to team photographer Martin Hartley. The close-knit team are careful to stay in view of on another in the hazardous conditions but pathfinder Ann Daniels is always 200m in front, followed by Pen Hadow, and then Mr Hartley. To combat the distances between them, they have been writing messages in the snow but there is a big difference between the men’s messages and Ms Daniels, the only woman on the team. “If I see something that I think will make a great picture I write a big ‘P’ for photo with my ski pole for Martin to read when he follows in my tracks”, said expedition leader Mr Hadow. “At least that’s how it began. I have to admit that over time my messages to Martin have become frivolous as well as pragmatic. “I’ll often write something provocative just to turn round and see him laugh when he reaches it.” Ms Daniels on the other hand leaves the schoolboy humour to the boys, preferring to leave sweet messages of encouragement and kisses. With Mr Hartley bringing up the rear, he has nobody to write to but the polar bears but he has warned his cheeky colleague that he will have the last laugh. “All your rude messages to me are noted Pen and I just want to remind you that I’m the photographer and I can make you look good or I can make you look gross,” he joked. “It’s really your choice. Perhaps you may want to edit your comments accordingly in the future.”
Posted 21 April 2009; 12:48:42 PM. Permalink
Tagged: Arctic Ocean, Circumpolar News, Expeditions, exploration, and field trips
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