INTERACT Reducing the Environmental Impacts of Arctic Fieldwork.

Abstract

The environmental impacts of fieldwork at and around research stations may be small in comparison to the impacts of all other human activities and in relation to the often vast and remote areas in which the fieldwork takes place. However, fieldwork most likely have both global and local impacts. Examples of these are different means of transport emitting greenhouse gasses and other substances contributing to global Climate Change and pollution, while the fieldwork itself often impacts the local environment. In remote parts of North America, Greenland and Russia, the impacts of research might in fact in some areas be the most important local anthropogenic influence, e.g. in terms of damage to vegetation, erosion, disturbance to wildlife, emissions, waste disposal, nutrient enrichment, etc. The impacts of fieldwork is not only an environmental issue but may also influence other current or future scientific studies. Researchers should therefore aim to minimise the Climate Change contributions and all other environmental impacts of their science activities.The INTERACT Reducing the Environmental Impacts of Arctic Fieldwork guidebook contains recommendations on how arctic scientists can reduce their contribution to Climate Change and other environmental impacts. The guidebook has been written in close cooperation with station managers of arctic and northern alpine and boreal research stations with the purpose of sharing their knowledge and best practices. The target groups for the book are scientists and other visitors to research stations in cold regions. However, the book can also be used by scientists doing research outside research stations.

The guidebook has thematic chapters describing different environmental considerations related to the fieldwork planning, the transport to and from the research site, staying at a research station and working in the field. Additional information on fieldwork planning can be found in the INTERACT Fieldwork Planning Handbook and the INTERACT Fieldwork Communication and Navigation guidebook. The INTERACT Practical Field Guide also contains comprehensive information on how to prepare, plan and carry out fieldwork in the Arctic.