Annual Report 2001

16 UNEP/GRID-Arendal | Annual Report 2001 | | Section 2 | GRID-Arendal in review

The findings in the GLOBIO project reveal that within 50 years, more than half of the Arctic land area may be impacted by human activities. This will most likely result in a substantial increase in environmental problems affecting habitats, biodiversity, food production, fresh water resources and health.

Arctic project development

We support Arctic collaboration through the development of Global Environment Facility (GEF) projects. These projects forge international co-operation and finance actions that address biodiversity loss, climate change and international waters. One such project is the Integrated Ecosystem Approach to Conserve Biodiversity and Minimise Habitat Fragmentation in the Russian Arctic (ECORA). The aim of the project is to develop and implement integrated ecosystem management strategies in the Arctic. This project is developed in co-operation with the Russian Federation and the Arctic Council's working group on Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna (CAFF). A new proposal focusing on climate change effects on biodiversity in the Russian Arctic and adapting to these changes is being developed in co-operation with the Arctic Council Working Group on the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment (ACIA) and the Russian Federation and Academy of sciences.

Photo Reidar Hindrum

Polar bear footprints in Hiorthamn, Adventfjorden on Spitsbergen/Svalbard.