(Press-News.org) As leadership of the Arctic Council passes from Sweden to Canada May 15, experts say it is crucial that northern nations strengthen response capabilities to shipping-related accidents foreseen in newly-opened northern waters, as well as to more-common local emergencies such as floods, forest fires and rescue situations.
And Canada needs to lead by example. Despite having the world's longest Arctic coastline and second-largest territory in the region, its far northern marine and aviation infrastructure badly lags by international comparison, according to experts with the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program, an initiative of the Canada Centre for Global Security Studies at the Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto and the Walter and Duncan Gordon Foundation.
Northern emergency flight rescue operations today originate from the Royal Canadian Air Force base in the southern Ontario city of Trenton and involve at least eight hours of flying. The Canadian Coast Guard aims to respond to requests for icebreaking services within 10 hours. However, weather and distance often result in response times measured in days.
By contrast, Russia is building 10 search and rescue stations along its Northern Sea Route, expected to open in 2015.
The Arctic Council ministerial meeting this week is hosted by the outgoing chair, Sweden, in that country's northernmost city, Kiruna.
The anticipated 300 delegates - perhaps the largest in Arctic Council history - include noted Canadian historian John English, author of a forthcoming book - Ice and Water: Power, Peoples and the Arctic Council - and a senior member of the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program team. Says Dr. English: "Chairing the Arctic Council represents a real opportunity for Canada to show leadership in a region whose importance to global affairs is rapidly increasing."
In Kiruna, specific initiatives and goals of the Canadian chairmanship will be articulated. Minister Leona Aglukkaq has detailed Canada's main priorities in the chair as "development for the people of the North," supporting this with sub-themes of sustainable Arctic communities, responsible resource extraction, and safe Arctic shipping.
"Underpinning all of the Arctic Council's work must be a commitment to the full involvement of Permanent Participants from indigenous communities," says Thomas Axworthy, President and CEO of the Walter and Duncan Gordon Foundation. "In that regard, as it moves forward on its priority of safe shipping, Canada should heed the voices of those living in the north who know first-hand the realities of Arctic emergency response."
In a May 2012 report, the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program said: "A proudly northern nation, Canada is the second largest Arctic state. Half of the country's land mass lies in the Arctic and sub-Arctic. It has a 162,000-km Arctic coast line, but is the only Arctic nation without a deep water port."
The report recommended Canada "make the necessary strategic investments in Canadian Arctic air and marine infrastructure to enable Canada to effectively implement the Arctic Council negotiated accord on search and rescue" and be prepared to fulfil its international agreement obligations.
The "Agreement on Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue" negotiated under Arctic Council auspices and signed in 2011, clearly defines the territory for which a nation is the primary responder, with responses augmented as required by other Arctic states.
Local community members are often the frontline of response to emergencies in remote Arctic communities, says Sara French, Director of the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program which, early next year, will host a major meeting on northern security issues, partnering with several international organizations sharing common concerns.
A 2010 survey conducted for the Program showed about 90 per cent of northern respondents deemed of top importance (a four or five out of five) national capacity to respond to disasters, such as major northern oil spills, emergency search and rescue teams and equipment, and basic public infrastructure.
When asked if Canada is well equipped to respond to emergencies, including search and rescue teams and equipment, only 40 per cent of northerners agreed. Just 11 per cent thought there was sufficient capacity to respond to disasters, such as a major spill. Investing in infrastructure was virtually tied with better healthcare as an investment priority among Canadians in the Far North (65 per cent vs. 66 per cent respectively).
As stated in the Program report Canada as an Arctic Power:"For northern Canadians, fatal aircraft accidents in Resolute and Yellowknife, and the deadly fire on-board a Norwegian cruise ship - all in the fall of 2011- further highlighted the need to develop effective emergency management systems in the Arctic that are matched by adequate assets to carry them out." ()
An Institute of the North survey in Alaska found similar thoughts about Northern priorities among residents of that state, with "capacity to respond to disasters, such as major oil spills" in first place; "capacity to respond to emergencies, including search and rescue teams and equipment" in third place; and "basic infrastructure, like roads, hospitals, libraries, schools and water treatment facilities" in fourth. (http://bit.ly/16qmKxT)
Meanwhile, a Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program background brief, "Interests and Roles of Non-Arctic States in the Arctic", based on a 2011 meeting held in conjunction with Canadian International Council, showed many Asian interests relate to shipping.
It is not yet known how many, if any, new non-Arctic countries will be accorded Arctic Council observer status. Their role in shaping Arctic governance is already being felt at the International Maritime Organization, however, which is negotiating a voluntary Polar Code for Arctic shipping. At the talks, Canada articulated a strong stance on pollution-related issues.
Top recommendations offered by the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program to the Canadian government as it takes the chair of the Arctic Council:
(compiled based on research outlined in Canada as an Arctic Power, http://bit.ly/13YqH8W):
Propose a new funding mechanism to enable Permanent Participants to fully participate in all of the working groups of the Arctic Council.
Support the Permanent Participants in co-operation with the Arctic Council member states to jointly review the role of the Indigenous Peoples Secretariat (IPS) following the creation of the Permanent Secretariat of the Arctic Council in Tromsø, Norway.
Make the necessary strategic investments in Canadian Arctic air and marine infrastructure to enable Canada to effectively implement the Arctic Council negotiated accord on search and rescue.
Encourage the Arctic Council to recognize the special role for regional, state, and territorial governments in Arctic governance and particularly in the Arctic Council.
Encourage the Arctic Council Secretariat to create plain-language summaries of its studies and activities so that the information is accessible to interested citizens.
Propose that any candidate for Arctic Council Observer status must publicly declare its respect for the sovereignty of Arctic states and the rights of Arctic indigenous peoples.
Fund the Canadian Polar Commission to a level equivalent to counterpart institutions in other Arctic states.
INFORMATION:
About the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program
A partnership between the Canada Centre for Global Security Studies at the Munk School of Global Affairs, University of Toronto and the Walter and Duncan Gordon Foundation, the Munk-Gordon Arctic Security Program is dedicated to studying and promoting four overarching areas of concern: public opinion research, Arctic Council, Arctic Peoples and Security, and emergency management. Program details, publications and opinion polls can be accessed at http://www.gordonfoundation.ca. Follow @ArcticSecurity on Twitter.
As Canada takes Arctic Council helm, experts stress north's vulnerability to spills, emergencies
International experts recommend key focus areas for next 2 years
2013-05-13
ELSE PRESS RELEASES FROM THIS DATE:
Agent Orange exposure linked to life-threatening prostate cancer
2013-05-13
A new analysis has found a link between exposure to Agent Orange and lethal forms of prostate cancer among US Veterans. Published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the findings suggest that Agent Orange exposure history should be incorporated into prostate screening decisions for Veterans.
The herbicide Agent Orange was heavily used during the Vietnam War era and was often contaminated with dioxin, a dangerous toxin and potential carcinogen. Prior research suggests that exposure to Agent Orange may increase men's risk of developing ...
Early formula use helps some mothers breastfeed longer
2013-05-13
Recent public health efforts have focused extensively on reducing the amount of formula babies are given in the hospital after birth. But in the first randomized trial of its kind, researchers at UC San Francisco have found that giving small amounts of formula in the first few days of life to infants experiencing high levels of early weight loss actually can increase the length of time their mothers end up breastfeeding.
"Until now, we haven't explored if it is possible to identify babies who might benefit from early formula use. This study provides the first evidence ...
To suppress or to explore? Emotional strategy may influence anxiety
2013-05-13
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — When trouble approaches, what do you do? Run for the hills? Hide? Pretend it isn't there? Or do you focus on the promise of rain in those looming dark clouds?
New research suggests that the way you regulate your emotions, in bad times and in good, can influence whether – or how much – you suffer from anxiety.
The study appears in the journal Emotion.
In a series of questionnaires, researchers asked 179 healthy men and women how they managed their emotions and how anxious they felt in various situations. The team analyzed the results to see if different ...
Land management options outlined to address cheatgrass invasion
2013-05-13
CORVALLIS, Ore. – A new study suggests that overgrazing and other factors increase the severity of cheatgrass invasion in sagebrush steppe, one of North America's most endangered ecosystems.
The research found that overgrazed land loses the mechanisms that can resist invasion. This includes degradation of once-abundant native bunchgrasses and trampling that disturbs biological soil crusts. The work was published today in the Journal of Applied Ecology by researchers from Oregon State University, Augustana College and the U.S. Geological Survey.
"We think there are ways ...
Study Shows Calcium and Vitamin D Keep Bones Strong After Menopause
2013-05-13
According to the U.S. National Osteoporosis Foundation, women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the five to seven years after menopause, making them more susceptible to osteoporosis and fractures. In a recent study from the British Medical Journal, it was confirmed that taking both calcium and vitamin D together on a daily basis significantly reduces the risk of bone fractures.
The research was based on a review of seven controlled trials comprising almost 70,000 people throughout the U.S. and Europe. These findings are important because this is one of the few ...
Richardson's Wildflower!Celebrates Two Texas Traditions: Musicand Barbeque
2013-05-13
When appearing at an event for the first time, the goal is to make a big impression - to tantalize and leave guests wanting more. Impressions don't come much bigger, nor aromas more tantalizing, than the Ultimate Smoker & Grill, making its debutat Wildflower! Richardson's Arts and Music FestivalMay 17-19, 2013.
Visitors can enjoy two Texas traditions this year - great bands and barbeque. Trace Arnold of Justin, Texas- dubbed "the rib whisperer" by his wife - is in charge of the 80-foot rig that boasts of "the Ultimate Grilling Experience." Arnold ...
Cleanicity Launches an Idiegogo Campaign to Bring the Stikitty Base--a Simple, Attractive Fix for Cat Litter Messes--to the Crowd
2013-05-13
Today, Cleanicity LLC, the leading manufacturer of pet products inspired by clean freaks, announced it is launching a campaign with Indiegogo, the world's largest funding platform for creative projects, to fund the development of a stylish base for its award-winning product, the Stikitty.
"By combining the new Stikitty Base with the existing Stikitty Refill, we are creating one of the world's most innovative cat litter mat systems on the market today—one that is effective at stopping cat litter tracking and stylish at the same time," explained Carol O'Brien, ...
Integral USA Magazine Announces the Casting of Mrs. Integral USA 2013, The Diva Within You
2013-05-13
Integral USA Magazine announces the casting of Mrs. Integral USA 2013, The Diva Within You.
Mrs. Integral USA was born thinking of those women that for decades have been the architect of their homes. Those women that have left behind what they wanted to be to dedicate themselves to the wellbeing of others.
Integral USA Magazine takes this opportunity to honor and transform these women into the beautiful divas they had hidden within themselves for decades. During this contest, the magazine will aim to showcase their talents to the world and select one diva among ...
UpperCurve Introduces New Sales Representative for New York Metro and North New Jersey Territory
2013-05-13
UpperCurve's newest sales rep, Andrew Magnani states, "I am extremely excited to be working with UpperCurve covering the New York Metro and North New Jersey territory. I have seen many great products come into the dental industry over the last 30 years and the automated dental instrument dryer is a must have for all dental practices."
UpperCurve offers the only "stand alone" dental instrument dryer available to dental offices today. Drying instruments prior to wrapping is an essential step in the cleaning process to prevent rust and corrosion.
Instrument ...
New Adventure Tour Company Launches in Northern Virginia
2013-05-13
Tourists visiting the nation's capital will soon be able to book tailored tours to popular hiking destinations in picturesque areas of neighboring states. The tour company, called ESQUAGAMA - meaning "the last water" in Ojibwe - will offer several tours in 2013 to small groups of travelers looking for an alternative to traditional museum tours in the District.
Tours include the Billy Goat Trail in Maryland, Harpers Ferry in West Virginia, and Old Rag Mountain in Virginia. Travelers will be guided every step of the way from hotel pick-up to drop-off, according ...
LAST 30 PRESS RELEASES:
Chinese herbal medicine’s potential in preventing dementia
Firms that read more perform better
Tightly tied waist cord of saree underskirt may pose cancer risk, warn doctors
10% of children in high-burden tuberculosis settings may develop the disease by age 10
Health experts push for the elimination of a ‘remarkably harmful toxin’
University of Tennessee, Lockheed Martin expand Master Research Agreement
Testing thousands of RNA enzymes helps find first ‘twister ribozyme’ in mammals
Groundbreaking study provides new evidence of when Earth was slushy
International survey of more than 1600 biomedical researchers on the perceived causes of irreproducibility of research results
Integrating data from different experimental approaches into one model is challenging – this study presents a community-based, full-scale in silico model of the rat hippocampal CA1 region that integra
SwRI awarded grant to characterize Las Moras Springs watershed
Water overuse in MATOPIBA could mean failure to meet up to 40% of local demand for crop irrigation
An extra year of education does not protect against brain aging
Researchers from Uppsala and Magdeburg obtain an ERC Synergy Grant to advance cancer immunotherapy
Deaf male mosquitoes don’t mate
Recognizing traumatic brain injury as a chronic condition fosters better care over the survivor’s lifetime
SwRI’s Dr. James Walker receives Distinguished Scientist Award from Hypervelocity Impact Society
A mother’s health problems pose a risk to her children
Ensuring a bright future for diamond electronics and sensors
The American Pediatric Society selects Dr. Maria Trent as the Recipient of the 2025 David G. Nichols Health Equity Award
The first 3D view of the formation and evolution of globular clusters
Towards a hydrogen-powered future: highly sensitive hydrogen detection system
Scanning synaptic receptors: A game-changer for understanding psychiatric disorders
High-quality nanomechanical resonators with built-in piezoelectricity
ERC Synergy Grants for 57 teams tackling major scientific challenges
Nordic research team receives €13 million to explore medieval book culture
The origin of writing in Mesopotamia is tied to designs engraved on ancient cylinder seals
Explaining science through dance
Pioneering neuroendocrinologist's century of discovery launches major scientific tribute series
Gendered bilingualism in post-colonial Korea
[Press-News.org] As Canada takes Arctic Council helm, experts stress north's vulnerability to spills, emergenciesInternational experts recommend key focus areas for next 2 years