Melting Arctic: Implications for the 21st Century
by Ziad Al-Achkar
“The future of the region will be governed by how serious and effective the global response to climate change is. If current trends continue, it is likely that snow and ice will melt at faster rates, leading to a drastic rise in sea levels around the world. The interests in resource exploration and shipping through the region are likely to only increase.”
This article discusses the various approaches arctic states are taking as ice caps continue to melt at alarming rates. It provides a general overview of ice and snow trends as well as past disputes over the region. The author argues that although the Arctic has not been a contentious region in the past, due to climate change it is poised to be an area compromised by competing state interests.
Climate Change Issue PDF: Climate Change XX, no. 1
