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Arctic Activities
Conditions in the Arctic are changing rapidly. It is estimated that by 2020-2030 the Arctic Ocean will be free of multi-year ice in the summer, increasing opportunities for maritime transportation, tourism, oil and gas exploration. With worldwide demand for oil growing rapidly and easier access, it is possible that oil extraction in the Arctic will also increase. Along with this comes a greater possibility of spills and damage to the environment.
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The Kapitan Dranitsyn, moored in the Arctic ice. Photo credit: NOAA Climate Program Office, NABOS 2006 Expedition.
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For More Information
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- Arctic Response Issues Oil spills in arctic waters (i.e., oil in, on, or under ice, as well as, in broken ice, ice-infested or ice-covered waters) pose significant challenges for response, recovery, and restoration to minimize biological effects and reduce oil impacts on natural resources. [leaves OR&R site]
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- Podcast: Preparing for the Arctic Future Audio podcast, produced by NOAA's National Ocean Service. Within the next two decades, the Arctic Ocean is expected to be free of ice in the summer. That means lots of ship traffic, and lots of ship traffic means the potential for lots of accidents and oil spills. [leaves OR&R site]
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- Observers' Guide to Sea Ice A job aid for volunteers who report observations of ice conditions to authorities, such as the U.S. Coast Guard.
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