328
Arctic Yearbook 2013
The Arctic Council & Canada‘s Chairmanship
Arctic Marine Oil Pollution Prevention
It is important that Arctic States take the necessary measures to protect the Arctic marine and
terrestrial environment, local communities and traditional livelihoods from the possible impacts of
resource development in the North.
The Kiruna Ministerial Meeting saw Arctic States sign the Agreement on Cooperation on Marine Oil
Pollution Preparedness and Response in the Arctic. This is the second legally binding agreement to
be negotiated under the auspices of the Council, the first being the Agreement on Cooperation on
Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue in the Arctic. This new agreement lays out the basis
for cooperation and assistance in responding to marine oil pollution incidents in the Arctic region.
Building on the Council‘s past work, a new Task Force will develop an Action Plan to prevent
marine oil pollution in the Arctic region.
Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism and Cruise Ship Operations in the Arctic
With the Arctic becoming more accessible, opportunities for tourism are growing. However,
increased cruise ship traffic creates a new set of environmental and public safety challenges. The
Council, in collaboration with cruise ship and tourist operators, will develop best practices and a set
of guidelines for sustainable tourism, passenger safety and environmental protection.
Addressing Short-Lived Climate Pollutants and Adaptation to Climate Change
The Arctic is facing rapid changes in its climate and physical environment, with widespread effects
on northern communities and ecosystems. At the Kiruna meeting, the Council released its second
report on short-lived climate pollutants, which identified the substantial health and climate benefits
that can be achieved by reducing these pollutants.
This scientific work will provide the basis for further action to address black carbon and methane
emissions. A new Task Force will develop arrangements to achieve enhanced reductions of black
carbon and methane emissions.
In addition to mitigation, the Council will also develop tools that enable decision makers to plan for
adaptation to a changing climate and socio-economic conditions in the North.
Promoting Mental Wellness in Northern Circumpolar Communities
Change in the Arctic is impacting the way of life of indigenous communities and leading to difficult
health and social issues. In response to these changes, the Council will evaluate which strategies and
interventions are most effective with respect to mental health promotion and suicide prevention in
circumpolar communities.