4.5: Arctic
Safe, environmentally sound Arctic access and resource management Other Information:
No region better exemplifies the complex interdependence of communities and changing climate and ecosystem conditions than
the Arctic. There is evidence of widespread, dramatic change in the Arctic region, with local to global implications. National
security concerns are increasing as reductions in sea ice increase access to Arctic resources and opportunities for economic
development and resource extraction. These economic drivers can further threaten ecosystems and Arctic inhabitants already
impacted by the rapidly changing climate. The Arctic region needs accurate land and tidal elevations to build flood protections,
harden infrastructure, ensure safe and efficient marine transportation, model storm surge, and monitor sea levels. The breadth
and complexity of the cultural, societal, economic, and environmental impacts within this region requires a concerted, systematic
and rapid management effort with partners from local to international levels. To achieve this objective, NOAA will build on
its other capabilities including climate data, marine weather, improved ecosystem understanding, and increased observing capacity
to assist Arctic coastal communities in understanding and adapting to climate impacts, prepare for severe weather, and sustainably
manage Arctic resources. NOAA will support the development of resilient Arctic coastal communities with mapping and charting
services for safe navigation to and through the Arctic. Modernizing the Arctic geospatial framework will provide the foundation
for many of NOAA's activities in the region, including effective climate adaptation, community resilience, and coastal resource
and marine spatial planning strategies. NOAA will support the Arctic region with accurate land and tidal elevations to monitor
sea level and ice conditions. NOAA will bring to the region such essential services as accurate weather and navigation tools,
capacity-building to respond to natural and human-induced coastal hazards, and research to improve Arctic oil spill response
and restoration capabilities. Arctic communities will rely on NOAA for climate information to inform decisions for relocating
communities, safeguarding human health, and conduct adaptive strategies. Throughout this effort, NOAA will engage domestic
and international partners to promote cooperation and sharing of data, observational platforms, and intellectual resources.
Over the next five years, evidence of progress toward this objective will include: * Reduced risk and impact of maritime incidents
on the Arctic environment; * Arctic communities and ecosystems prepared for climate change and weather events with adaptation
strategies and plans; * A stronger foundational geospatial framework to better support economic and community resilience and
inform policy options and coastal management responses to the unique challenges in the region; and * Increased international
collaboration to strengthen NOAA and U.S. policy objectives in the region.
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