The Arctic This Week Take Five: Week of March 30, 2020

Increased Sea Ice Mobility Risks Polluting Arctic Neighbours 

A study published in Earth’s Future, a journal by the American Geophysical Union, predicts that by 2050, Arctic sea ice will travel at double its current speed. This will result in a tripling of the sea ice exchange between Arctic countries, thereby expediting the transport of pollutants such as microplastics and oil between neighboring coasts (Advancing Earth and Space Science, McGill).

Take 1: As the sea ice cover in the Arctic rapidly transforms, Arctic states will have to collaborate and come to an agreement on how to navigate the upcoming difficulties. This research shows that ecosystems across the Arctic regions are more interdependent than we once assumed. The protection of one country may rely on the environment of a distant Arctic state. With an increased interest in off-shore Arctic development and shipping exacerbating the situation, international laws are needed to regulate coastal pollution from distant countries. 

Methane-Eating Bacteria Can Help Decrease Greenhouse Gas Emissions From Thawing Arctic Tundra

An increase in global temperatures are leading to an unprecedented thawing of Arctic permafrost. With this comes concerns like decreased albedo and a staggering amount of methane, an especially potent greenhouse gas, being released into the atmosphere. A study conducted by scientists at Purdue University indicates that a type of bacteria found in Arctic soils uses methane as an energy source, which can offset the increasing methane from anthropogenic sources (Yale Environment 360).

Take 2: Despite the new modelling techniques that incorporate the role of these bacteria, the resounding message remains consistent: more action will be needed. While some emissions may be curbed, the positive feedback loop of increasing greenhouse gases coupled with increasing global temperatures will continue unless further regulatory measures are enacted.

Adjustments Amidst the World’s Most Comprehensive Arctic Expedition

The Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate expedition (MOSAiC) is a year-long research endeavor into the Central Arctic. Over 300 researchers from 19 different countries are collaborating to develop the most comprehensive view of the Arctic to date. While there have been several setbacks over the course of the expedition, the most recent one is the temporary suspension of its aerial survey campaigns after a researcher tested positive for coronavirus last week. Crew members are now taking stronger precautions to avoid a coronavirus outbreak on deck (Barents Observer, High North News).

Take 3: The high infection rate of COVID-19 means researchers on board the vessel are taking extra precautions. A single virus case aboard the icebreaker would likely prove detrimental to the expedition. While the ship is equipped with a quarantine ward, recent examples from cruise ships around the world exemplify how quickly the virus can spread when social distancing and home quarantines are not in place.

Arctic Wilderness Tourism Hit By the Coronavirus

Tourism in the High North has experienced a sharp decline due to the spread of coronavirus. In early March several travel agencies were fully booked for the coming months; however, border closure and further travel restrictions have resulted in cancellations, while other expenses such as electricity and veterinary bills are still mounting. A recent survey by the Norwegian Hospitality Association polled 880 member companies, of which ⅔ reported they were on the brink of bankruptcy. Furthermore, an alarming 80% of the companies have laid off between 76% and 100% of their employees (Barents Observer).

Take 4: Although COVID-19 is first and foremost a health crisis, it is difficult to decouple the situation from its undeniable economic impact, especially on smaller businesses. Some tourism companies are holding on to the hope that after the chaos, travelers will be attracted to the peaceful wilderness. However, to stay afloat, government intervention will be necessary.

Gazprom to Build New Pipelines Between Arctic Russia and China

Russia’s Gazprom has announced its intention to build pipelines from Yamal to Far Eastern Russian regions and China as one of the company’s priorities. The plan comes on the heels of Gazprom’s current key markets in Europe gradually turning away from traditional hydrocarbons and towards alternative energy sources. Gazprom intends to deliver natural gas to western parts of China and consequently open a new route for Russian energy exports (Eye on the Arctic).

Take 5: In 2019, Gazprom provided 35.6% of European natural gas consumption. The energy landscape of not only the Arctic, but the world as a whole, is dependent on the decisions of major Russian oil companies like Gazprom.