UNEP Year eBook 2014 Update - Rapid Change in the Arctic

Rapid changes in the Arctic require urgent responses within the region and from the wider world. Since climate change dominates the current transformation of the Arctic environment, reducing global greenhouse gas emissions is the most important action that needs to be taken. Building resilience and adapting to inevitable climate change is of great importance. In view of the potential for major environmental damage, careful consideration needs to be given to a precautionary approach to economic development. A precaut ionary approach requi res measures such as development moratoriums until full assessments have established risks to the environment and human systems – and until adequate management frameworks are in place. Because of the rapid pace of change in the fragile Arctic region, it is essential to develop strengthened systems for monitoring and for provision of early warnings. The leading scientific research being carried out in the Arctic, and successful inter-governmental cooperation on protecting the region’s environment, provide examples for the rest of the world. Read more about rapid change in the Arctic in the UNEP Year Book 2013 1. R APID C HANGE IN THE A RCTIC | 2014 UPDATE

Changes in sea ice affect marine ecosystems and livelihoods. © Trends in Arctic Biodiversity film – CAFF/GRID-Arendal

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