Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission established
The International Hydrographic Organization in Monaco has established an Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission (ARHC) comprising representatives of five member coastal states, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Russia and the USA. It is the 16th regional commission to be formed under IHO auspices.
The development, says the IHO, is due to the effects of climate change as a result of which the Arctic is presently undergoing extraordinary transformations, leading to increased natural resource development and marine traffic at a time when little reliable data exists. Less than 10% of its waters have so far been charted to modern standards.
To meet current and emerging challenges, the Arctic coastal states, represented by their Hydrographic Offices, have accordingly recognised the need for enhanced collaboration and coordination of their activities. An informed exchange of knowledge and information supported by provision of quality assured data should help to facilitate an environmentally responsible exploration of the region’s waters while contributing to a much needed maritime infrastructure.
The new Commission is headed by Dr Savithri Narayanan, Hydrographer of Canada.
