The Arctic Highlights Our Failure to Act in a Rapidly Changing World

Peter Schlosser, Hajo Eicken, Vera Metcalf, Stephanie Pfirman, Maribeth S. Murray and Clea Edwards
Additional contact information
Peter Schlosser: Global Futures Laboratory, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Hajo Eicken: International Arctic Research Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK 99775, USA
Vera Metcalf: Eskimo Walrus Commission, Nome, AK 99762, USA
Stephanie Pfirman: College of Global Futures, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA
Maribeth S. Murray: Arctic Institute of North America, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
Clea Edwards: Global Futures Laboratory, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 3, 1-14

Abstract: In this perspective on the future of the Arctic, we explore actions taken to mitigate warming and adapt to change since the Paris agreement on the temperature threshold that should not be exceeded in order to avoid dangerous interference with the climate system. Although 5 years may seem too short a time for implementation of major interventions, it actually is a considerable time span given the urgency at which we must act if we want to avoid crossing the 1.5 to <2 °C global warming threshold. Actions required include co-production of research exploring possible futures; supporting Indigenous rights holders’ and stakeholders’ discourse on desired futures; monitoring Arctic change; funding strategic, regional adaptation; and, deep decarbonization through transformation of the energy system coupled with negative carbon emissions. We are now in the decisive decade concerning the future we leave behind for the next generations. The Arctic’s future depends on global action, and in turn, the Arctic plays a critical role in the global future.

Keywords: Arctic; COVID-19; Indigenous rights; climate change; co-production; desired futures; adaptation; mitigation; decarbonization; rapid change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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