Foreword: Vulnerable populations in the Arctic

Abstract

Interest in the Arctic has grown significantly in recent years. The Arctic environment is unique and highly sensitive to disturbances. Temperatures have already risen twice as quickly in the Arctic as elsewhere on Earth. Glaciers and sea ice are melting more extensively than in the past. This is already putting a great strain on communities and ecosystems. As ice withdraws, technological advances are creating opportunities to open transport routes across the Arctic Ocean and exploit the natural resources of the Arctic. These developments must be managed in a responsible and sustainable manner so that they do not lead to undesired effects.

(Published: 22 November 2011)

Citation: Global Health Action 2011, 4: 11132 - DOI: 10.3402/gha.v4i0.11132