Arctic Frontiers conference 2023

The Norwegian ice service will be leading session 3 of the Arctic Frontiers Conference in late January / early February 2023, “Modelling and monitoring challenges to maritime safety in a changing Arctic.” Arctic Frontiers provides a forum for dialogue and communication between science, government and industry, aiming to contribute towards responsible and sustainable development of communities and businesses in the Arctic. 

Our session will combine speakers from the operational service and research sectors, as well as stakeholders from the maritime industry, to discuss end user needs in the context of increasing maritime activities in a rapidly emergent dynamic Arctic. This will be the 17th annual conference organised by Arctic Frontiers and one of the first times operational aspects of sea ice monitoring needs will be at the forefront to include innovative needs for product development, modelling and service requirements to support current and future stakeholder needs. Arctic Frontiers welcomes abstract submissions from all who can contribute to the subject theme, with the deadline for abstract submission set at September 16th 2022. 

 

Session description 

Climate change and the retreating sea ice bring both opportunities and new challenges for activity in the Arctic. Larger area of open water and a lengthening navigation season provide potential benefits to those engaged in transport and logistics, fishing, resource extraction and tourism. However, less sea ice and warmer oceans does not equate to reduced hazards. An ‘ice free’ Arctic is defined by climate forecasts as 1 million square kilometres of ice remaining during the summer, which becomes thicker multi-year ice in the winter. In addition, increased calving of icebergs from disintegrating glaciers and changing storm tracks, compose a significant hazard to maritime safety. Maritime safety is a key component in ensuring that the Arctic is developed sustainably, through promoting efficient and safe navigation. 

This session will explore challenges to maritime safety, both from an operational and research perspective, including sea-ice edge mapping, short-range seasonal sea ice and storm forecasting, new ocean monitoring tools and the potential for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Twins for maritime safety. Furthermore, abstracts focusing on risk assessment, recommendations for updating the IMO Polar Code, and engagement with maritime stakeholders are also encouraged. 

 

Contact Details

Arctic Frontiers - Jenny Turton - jenny@arcticfrontiers.com

Norwegian Ice Service - William Copeland - Williamjp@met.no 

You will find more information on the Arctic Frontiers website 

Important dates