Canadian International Polar Year (2007–2008): an introduction

• Published in: Climatic Change
• Main Authors: Kulkarni, T., Watkins, J. M., Nickels, S., Lemmen, D. S.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Springer Science and Business Media LLC 2012
• Subjects: Atmospheric Science; Global and Planetary Change; Arctic; Canada; Climate change; Human health; International Polar Year; IPY; Sea ice
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10584-012-0583-5; https://link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s10584-012-0583-5.pdf; https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10584-012-0583-5/fulltext.html; http://www.springerlink.com/index/pdf/10.1007/s10584-012-0583-5

Abstract Canadian contributions to International Polar Year (IPY) 2007–2008 were designed to improve the understanding of climate change impacts and adaptation and to gain insight into issues surrounding community health and well-being in Canada’s arctic. Fifty-two research projects, involving scientists, northern partners and communities, focused on the arctic atmosphere and climate, cryosphere, oceans, sea ice, marine ecosystems, terrestrial ecosystems, wildlife as well as human health and community well-being. Key research findings on these topics are presented in this special issue of Climatic Change. This introductory paper presents an overview of the international and Canadian IPY programs and a summary of Canadian IPY results, including progress made in data management and capacity building. The legacy of IPY in Canada includes expanded international scientific cooperation, meaningful partnerships with northern communities, and more northern residents with research training.