The Arctic MEA report specifically highlighted the importance of continuous Arctic monitoring and data gathering in order to preserve Arctic biodiversity. They state that “Although efforts to monitor Arctic species exist, the lack of coordination, long-term commitment, integration and involvement of local people has resulted in weak linkages between monitoring and decision making.” Without proper monitoring we cannot make well-informed decisions about Arctic development and biodiversity preservation. The Arctic Council has made a commitment to solving this problem by implementing monitoring of marine, freshwater, terrestrial, and CBMP coastal biodiversity monitoring programs. The essential thread throughout this conversation about preservation is making sure there is commitment and dedicated involvement from the Arctic States, something that is currently missing. In order for proper data collection and biodiversity monitoring, all nations must come together and create government monitoring programs so that we may gain a whole picture of the Arctic region. Without a full picture, we will not be able to make well-informed decisions about the future of the Arctic. Additionally, the Arctic MEA report especially showed how important fighting climate change and pollution in and outside of the Arctic is aiding the fight to preserve native biodiversity. Climate change has a tremendous impact on Arctic biodiversity, as it impacts animal habitats and food sources directly, leading to declining numbers. The Arctic is often impacted by climate change at an exponential rate compared to the rest of the globe, so any action that aims to limit the effects of climate change is important for the future of the Arctic. The Arctic Council is trying their best to get Arctic States to support climate change legislation, collect data, and make informed decisions about preserving biodiversity. The Convention on Biological Diversity has also made a dedicated effort towards 1) the conservation of biological diversity, 2) the sustainable use of the components of biological diversity, and 3) the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. This convention was created at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (1992) in order to execute the previous goals, and continues to work towards them now.
I agree with you that the puzzle piece of coordinated action is missing a lot of the time when it comes to Arctic conservation. It’s almost like there is the belief that environmental problems are contained within a state’s boundaries and could not possibly affect the rest of the Arctic.