The fate of the Arctic environment deserves global consideration. The Arctic is the world’s last continuous, undeveloped and unexploited coastal and marine region. It is an area highly unique in terms of its landscape, its peoples and ecosystems; as well as its vulnerability to climate change. The region is home to some 4 million people; roughly one-third of which are indigenous peoples whose traditional way of life depends directly on the health of the Arctic environment. Living as herders, hunters and gatherers, Arctic indigenous peoples have developed lifestyles that are inextricably linked to their surroundings. These peoples have lived sustainably in the Arctic for thousands of years, and are now faced with massive environmental change.

A copy of the report is available upon request from grid@grida.no.

Tags: Arctic climate change vital graphics