Arctic Frontiers Policy 2017

Moderator: Stephen Sackur

DAY 109:00SESSION I: A CHANGING ARCTIC Session format: 5 minute introductions followed by discussion

We are witnessing major alterations affecting the environment, climate, demography, and industries in the Arctic. New areas are opening up and new opportunities for cooperation are emerging. Are we prepared to address the opportunities in a responsible way? The Arctic has a diverse population of nearly 4 million people. How do we navigate the need for knowledge-based economic and social development of the Arctic on the one hand and protection and stewardship on the other? Is there at all a contradiction between conservation and use? If yes, how can they be reconciled? It is our responsibility to ensure a sustainable development of the Arctic. What actions could leaders in the different regions of the Arctic take that result in mutual benefit?

10:30 Break

11:00 SESSION II: BLUE-GREEN ECONOMY Session format: 5 minute introductions followed by discussion

The oceans hold unexplored potential for economic opportunities for food, bioprospecting, transportation and conventional and unconventional energy sources. Pollution, ocean acidification, marine debris and micro plastics, as well as illegal fisheries and unsustainable use of marine resources undermine our ability to exploit this potential. Operations in new and remote areas require appropriate communication technologies and reliable technical solutions. How can cross-sectoral thinking and new technologies help us move forward in the sustainable use of natural resources in the Arctic Ocean? Are we already in the midst of a blue-green shift or just hoping for it? From the different sectoral perspectives and priorities, how can we agree on the next steps?

12:30 Lunch

UIT The Arctic University of Norway, Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 January 2017

Photo: Audun Rikardsen

REI

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13:30 SESSION III: ARCTIC ENERGY POST-PARIS Session format: debate

The Paris Agreement requires most nations to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions to “well below” the 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels to mitigate climate change. What adjustments to the world’s energy systems will we see in the years to come? Given the constraints set by the Paris Agreement, what are the most likely pathways for future energy development in the north? Which energy alternatives are economically viable and technologically feasible when the energy transition that is needed gains momentum? Is industry investing enough in innovative approaches to reduce their carbon footprint, and how is it addressing the risks to fossil fuel assets? What are the implications for longer term development strategies to build resilience for northern communities?

14:30 PLENARYPROGRAMENDS,SIDEEVENTSSTART

19:00 WHITESPACE-BLUEFUTURERECEPTION at ‘Kystens hus’, city centre

DAY 209:00 SESSION IV: THE ARCTIC IN A GLOBAL CONTEXT Session format: 5 minute introductions followed by discussion

An increased global interest in the Arctic has been accompanied by a growing visibility of non-arctic states in science, industry development and also governance questions. Are these aspirations motivated by geopolitical concerns, economic interests, or are they just a sign of a romantic view on the Arctic as one of the world’s last pristine wilderness? The Arctic sits on the territories of the eight Arctic states and the Law of the Sea provides the legal framework for the management of the oceans and their use. How can the interest in the Arctic be channeled into productive and positive contributions in science, economic development and governance in the region?

10:30Coffee break

11:00 SESSION V: CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION IN CHANGING WEATHER Session format: panel debate

A unique feature of Arctic governance is the broad range of cross-border networks established to address challenges and opportunities that cut across national boundaries. These common efforts are found at the intra- community, regional and nation-state level, as well as in business, science and civil society. The networks address diverse policy fields such as education, economic development, search and rescue and coast guard cooperation. A shared theme across all these topics is the extent to which challenges and opportunities coming from outside the Arctic region affect this cooperation.

12:00Lunch

13:00 ARCTICFRONTIERSBUSINESSOPENS at Clarion Hotel The Edge, city centre

Photo: Andrea Izzotti/123rf