Navigating the North: Climate and Geopolitical Shifts in the North Atlantic and the Arctic

As the North Atlantic and Arctic regions undergo rapid climate-driven transformations, the geopolitical landscape is also shifting in response to new environmental and economic realities. This session will explore the complex interplay between ocean warming, ice loss, ecosystem shifts, and the increasing strategic importance of these waters. Scientists, policymakers, and diplomats will discuss the latest research on climate impacts, the challenges of sustainable resource management, and the evolving governance frameworks needed to balance environmental protection, economic interests, and security concerns. Key international agreements, such as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) agreement, the Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement, and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), will be examined in light of their role in shaping the future of these waters.

With growing interest in seabed minerals, new shipping routes through the Arctic, and the 30x30 conservation principles, how can international cooperation ensure sustainable and equitable management of these shared spaces? What role can European and global frameworks play in reinforcing ocean governance, protecting biodiversity, and addressing security concerns? How can new dual-use technologies, in a time of increasing naval security tensions and constrained science budgets, serve both scientific and military purposes? And how can scientific collaboration contribute to policy decisions on the future of these regions? This session will provide a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue on how strengthened cooperation can help navigate the profound changes facing the North Atlantic and the Arctic.

Moderator: Ole Øvretveit, AE Bergen Knowledge Hub and UiB's Faculty of Science and Technology