As the sea ice in the Arctic continues to melt, large areas of water are opening up,and the prospect of an “artic passage” is drawing much interest from commercial shipping companies and from the governments and military forces of northern nations.
A group called the Arctic Council — dedicated to shaping a peaceful future for the region, is holding a high level meeting in Portland this week.
On today’s Maine Calling program, Jennifer Rooks spoke with Dr. Adrianna Muir of the US State Department, Maine Senator Angus King, and Rafe Pomerance, chairman of Arctic 21, a coalition of nongovernmental organizations concerned with climate change in the region.
Pomerance describes what’s become known as “Artic Unravelling” which begins with the rapid decline in sea ice.
The Senior Arctic Officials Meeting of the Arctic Council takes plans on October 4-6 in Portland.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lachmN5YO4&feature=youtu.be
