Climate change poses a threat to the Arctic, with the region experiencing warming as much as four times the global average. The Arctic is one of the most rapidly changing regions in the world, impacting the unique ecosystems and the livelihoods of the people who live there. The impacts of changes will also be felt far beyond the Arctic
The UK, as the closest non-Arctic country to the North Pole, has much to gain from the Arctic, a great deal to contribute to its preservation, and a moral imperative to minimise its contribution to environmental degradation.
The Sub-Committee’s inquiry will explore three broad aspects of the UK’s relationship with the Arctic and its environment: the moral imperative to protect the delicate Arctic environment, the ramifications of the exploitation of the Arctic for its resources, and the UK’s leadership role in Arctic science.
The inquiry will look at the UK’s duty to minimise damage to the vulnerable region, and examine how the UK Government’s current engagement with the region supports the protection of the Arctic environment, ensuring that the rights and livelihoods of Arctic communities are protected, plastic and other waste levels are reduced, and air and water quality and the wider environment preserved.
Read the call for evidence for more information about this inquiry.