Strengthening Scientific Collaboration in the Arctic: Insights from the AASCO Summit and White Paper Release
The "Arena for the Gap Analysis of Existing Arctic Science Co-Operations" (AASCO) project launched its first phase in 2020, funded by the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation and coordinated by INAR at the University of Helsinki. From the onset, the University of the Arctic has been integral in supporting AASCO's development and execution. The inaugural event, organized by AASCO during the COVID-19 pandemic, faced challenges due to its virtual format, which posed difficulties in fostering interdisciplinary dialogue essential for new Arctic research insights. A core aim was to unite marine scientists with terrestrial ecosystem researchers. Over time, AASCO broadened its scope to encompass community research as well. These initial discussions led to an article published in the Arctic Yearbook 2024, which addresses a wide range of research issues in the Arctic.
In its second phase, AASCO welcomed new scientific collaborators, including SAON-ROADS, the University of the Arctic, SIOS, WMO-GAW, CBAS, and UNESCO-UNITAR, with many providing in-kind contributions. In 2024, AASCO organized sessions at ASSW 2024 in Edinburgh. The highlight of this phase, however, was the AASCO summit held at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, attended by around 100 participants from Europe, the USA, Canada, and China. Prince Albert of Monaco delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing the summit's objective to enhance research and collaboration, contributing to strategic initiatives like the Strategic Arctic Research Planning, ICARP IV, the SAON-ROADS framework, and preparations for the 5th International Polar Year (2032-33).
Across two days, roundtable discussions engaged participants on crucial topics such as Arctic sea ice, Greenland Ice Sheet dynamics, Short-Lived Climate Forcers (SLCFs), and the interaction between Arctic processes and the broader climate system, alongside themes like climate interventions, Arctic air pollution, pan-Arctic collaboration with local and indigenous communities, and data sharing. Given the region's geopolitical tensions, its significance to Earth's climate system—and thus climate change—remains paramount. The AASCO White Paper, newly released, captures the essentials of the above listed research themes and emphasizes the involvement of local and indigenous peoples. Climate interventions, a topic stirring significant scientific discourse, were a key focus at the summit. For more information and to download the White Paper, visit [https://www.atm.helsinki.fi/peex/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/AASCO_White_Paper_published260325.pdf].
For contact:
Adjunct professor Hanna Lappalainen, University of Helsinki, FI
+358 50 434 1710 hanna.k.lappalainen@helsinki.fi