EU-PolarNet 2 Policy Briefing - Strengthening international collaboration for observing polar regions

The polar regions are experiencing the fastest environmental changes on the planet due to climate change. These changes do not only concern polar ecosystems and inhabitants, but also constitute a major threat for the global climate and societies. The impact of these changes on the world’s system is still not fully understood yet. To understand the role of the polar regions in the changing global climate, this policy brief emphasises the urgent need for better collaboration and inclusion in polar observations and research. It is based on the EU-PolarNet 2 “White Paper with recommendations to accelerate the development of a sustained and fully integrated Polar observing system”, which offers 80practical recommendations for EU, national and international policymakers. These recommendations focus on strengtheningcooperation between the EU and other countries and ensuring Indigenous Peoples and local communities play a central role inpolar scientific projects. This approach will help support informed decisions to address global climate change and promote sustainable development in the polar regions.