Speaker: David Hik

Date: March, 17, 2015, 10:00-11:00 a.m.

Location: Meeting Room, Quadrangle Courtyard of PKU Law School

Abstract:

Science, technology and relevant knowledge underpins all four pillars of Canada's Northern Strategy (Environmental Protection, Social & Economic Development, Governance, and Sovereignty). With devolution, self-government agreements, and land claims obligations, the way in which Arctic research is conducted is changing, including greater involvement of Northern residents in decision-making at multiple levels. In 2014, the Canadian Polar Commission completed a State of Northern Knowledge in Canada Report as a contribution to ICARP III. The report discussed both recent advances and knowledge gaps. Many of the gaps identified would benefit from greater international collaboration. For example, with respect to environmental change, knowledge gaps include the long-term impacts of climate change, ocean acidification and invasive species on marine biodiversity; climate-vegetation-hydrology-permafrost relationships, feedback loops, and the broader implications of warming permafrost on ecosystems and infrastructure; improving options for adaptation and resilience in northern communities; and optimizing monitoring and observing networks. A primary objective of future Canadian research efforts in the Arctic will include support for the increased involvement of Northerners in research at all levels, from field work to the setting of policies and priorities, through capacity building. In the Canadian North, climate' knowledge' and perception of change at the local level is drawn from a variety of sources, including land-based knowledge and personal observation of changes, scientific knowledge, and spiritual understandings of change. How can Canadian and international institutions best collaborate to determine scientific and other priorities, and establish enduring partnerships with Northerners? The idea of establishing a "Canada-China Arctic Forum"is worth considering further.

Biography:

The International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) is a non-governmental organization which is composed of international science groups participating inarcticscience research. And David Hik is the President of the Canadian Polar Commission.