The Arctic
The Norwegian Arctic includes the archipelago of Svalbard and the Jan Mayen island, and is one of the world´s last wilderness areas and is still relatively untouched. Maintaining it as such is a challenge in an extreme climate, where nature needs a long time to repair damages caused by human intervention, wear and tear and other causes.
The Norwegian Polar Institute is dedicated to natural scientific research, mapping, and environmental monitoring, and acts as scientific and strategic adviser to the Norwegian Government in polar issues. Environmental monitoring is key in this process, and the institute runs the enviromental monitoring programme MOSJ. Without the knowledge that this monitoring and research provides, the authorities will not be able to make the right decisions to ensure sustainable development in the Arctic. The expressed goal of the Norwegian authorities is to manage the Norwegian Arctic in a manner such that it remains one of the best-preserved wilderness areas in the world.
Vulcanic activity at Beerenberg on Jan Mayen in 1970. Photo: Berntsen
Areas in the Arctic
Environmental management in the Arctic
Polar operations in the Arctic
The Norwegian Polar Institute has extensive experience with large operations in harsh and challenging conditions both domestically and abroad. The Institute also offers its services to others, including freight or rental of equipment, rental of our research vessel Lance and facilities for visiting scientists. Learn more about our polar operations in the Arctic.
Environment & climate in the Arctic
Global warming is one of the biggest challenges the world's population is facing. The arctic climate is important for the global climate, and in recent years major changes have been observed, including decreased ice cover. Climate change will affect both ecosystems and communities in the north.
