Global Change, Northern Transformations, and a Changing Socio-Economic Landscape

Abstract

Global change processes, economic and geo-political transformations, and the increased integration of the Arctic region with global markets all affect important economic and resource strategic interests. The changing demand and supply conditions for Arctic commercial resources affect market as well as non-market economies of the North. Global change is projected to have substantial future impacts on renewable resources. At the same time it may reduce the opportunity to engage in traditional activities important to the identity and way of life of northern residents. Life in the Arctic is increasingly shaped or influenced by events, decisions and activities happening elsewhere, with the future of the Arctic linked to and influenced by other, non-Arctic regional, social, political and economic interests. Socio-economic challenges related to global change pressures can be expected to play a growing role in decisions on resource allocation, resource use, ownership and control, and with important consequences for Arctic economies and prospects for their future economic sustainability. Strategies for sustainable development and Arctic environmental protection need to consider the economic, social and environmental linkages between the Arctic and other regions of the globe.