Please mark your calendars for the 6th Symposium on the Impacts of an Ice-Diminishing Arctic on Naval and Maritime Operations, co-hosted by the U.S. National Ice Center (NIC) and the U.S. Arctic Research Commission (USARC), July 14-16, 2015 at the Naval Heritage Center, 701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC.
Discussion: This symposium brings together nationally and internationally recognized experts on Arctic observations, climate change, and maritime operations. High-level opening remarks are anticipated from NOAA, Navy, USCG, USARC, Canadian Coast Guard, and other U.S. and international government representatives; special invitations to be sent to the Alaska Congressional Delegation and from representatives from other Arctic nations.
The 2015 symposium program will be influenced by relevant Arctic-related events since the 2013 symposium, including:
- 2015's peak winter Arctic sea ice extent occurred Feb. 25, 2015, a maximum that is not only early but is the lowest in the satellite record.
- Despite a modest increase in the age and thickness of sea ice in 2014 compared to 2013, the long-term evidence points to continued global warming and loss of sea ice.
- The updated USN Arctic Roadmap 2014 - 2030 released.
- The White House released the Implementation Plan for the National Strategy for the Arctic Region to advance U.S. security interests, pursue responsible stewardship for Arctic region, and strengthen international cooperation.
- Executive Order 13689: Enhancing Coordination of National Efforts in the Arctic released on Jan. 21, 2015
The symposium talks will cover three general topic areas:
- Latest research on observed and forecast changes of the Arctic sea ice environment;
- Present and future impact of these changes on Arctic operations;
- Relevant national and international Arctic policy issues and potential need for additional policy.