(International Polar Foundation, 27 February 2008) -- One of the interesting aspects of the current International Polar Year that sets it apart from previous Polar Years is the number of research projects that integrate scientific research with traditional knowledge of indigenous communities that have inhabited the Arctic for thousands of years. One such project is the IPY EALÁT project (n°399), which is investigating how traditional reindeer herding societies in the Arctic are adapting to climate variability and change. The IPY project is part of the broader EALÁT project that also involves outreach and education to reindeer herders in Eurasia and Alaska. Initiated by the Association of World Reindeer Herders, the EALÁT project , which lasts from 2007 until 2011, brings together researchers from very diverse disciplines, from climate researchers to linguists. The project is coordinated by the Sámi University College in Kautokeino, Norway, under the direction of Professors Svein Mathiesen and Ole-Henrik Magga, while the International Centre for Reindeer Husbandry, which is also in Kautokeino, handles outreach and information.

Tagged: IPY project, News