In lead up to its 35th anniversary in 2025, the International Arctic Science Committee (IASC) is coordinating a multi-year planning process for the Fourth International Conference on Arctic Research Planning (ICARP IV) that will engage Arctic researchers, policymakers, residents, and stakeholders from around the world to collegially discuss the state of Arctic science, the place the Arctic occupies in global affairs and systems, to consider the most urgent knowledge gaps and research priorities that lie before us and to explore avenues to address these research needs. This event is hosted by a consortium of US institutions, including the University of Colorado Boulder, University of Northern Iowa, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and Alaska Pacific University. ICARP I, II, and III focused the attention of the world’s researchers toward the value of strategic international coordination in accelerating progress in addressing critical challenges. ICARP IV will build upon this concept by striving to achieve consensus and build collaborations.

In the Arctic, permafrost plays a crucial role in building infrastructure. However, as the region warms and permafrost thaws, infrastructure is threatened as the ground shifts beneath the built environment. Unfortunately, the full extent of the risks associated with this process is not yet realized, but researchers are working to address this knowledge gap.

The troubled U.S. effort to build a new generation of Polar Security Cutters received an important boost with the U.S. Coast Guard awarding a $951.6 million contract modification to Bollinger Shipyards. The program has struggled to move forward with years of design delays and cost overruns with the builders now asserting that the project is on a solid path forward.

The Federal Maritime Commission (Commission) has exercised its statutory authority to initiate a nonadjudicatory investigation into transit constraints at international maritime chokepoints, particularly concerning the effects of the laws, regulations or practices of foreign governments, and the practices of owners or operators of foreign-flag vessels, on shipping conditions in these chokepoints. Including, (C.) Northern Sea Passage:

The Northern Sea Passage is emerging as a critical maritime chokepoint as new shipping routes open, a development that could reshape global trade patterns. As the region's waters become ice-free for longer periods, the Northern Sea Passage offers a shortcut between Europe and Asia, reducing travel time and fuel consumption. However, this has sparked competition over governance, with Russia seeking control over the shortest maritime route between Europe and Asia, and imposing fees, while other nations push for international access. The Northern Sea Passage's strategic importance is further amplified by increased military activity from Russia and China, including new bases and icebreakers, reflecting its growing value for nuclear deterrence and missile defense. As a result, both Russia and NATO forces are ramping up their military presence, increasing the potential for tensions and conflicts over access to the region's trade routes and resources.

Submit comments on or before May 13, 2025.

This notice requests information from the public to assist MARAD in determining which shipyards in the United States have the capacity, capability, and readiness to construct ships capable of operating in ice conditions and determining what factors would be necessary to further develop icebreaker ships in the United States. The objectives of the request are to increase the capacity of the United States to design, produce, and maintain polar icebreakers through trilateral collaboration while supporting each country's shipbuilding industrial base.

Comments must be received on or before April 9, 2025.

Securing the North and South poles is critical due to their strategic significance and natural resources. The United States, along with our partners and allies are poised to maintain a strong military presence to ensure the continuance of navigational freedoms and safeguards against potential near peer adversaries seeking to control these critical areas. Protecting these remote frontiers is key to preserving environmental stability and geopolitical balance.

Arctic Encounter, North America’s leading conference on Arctic policy and business, annually gathers over 1,000 participants from more than two dozen countries. As a nonprofit NGO, Arctic Encounter convenes and hosts dialogues and policy debates. Hosted in downtown Anchorage, Alaska, the event offers participants a unique blend of arts, culture, and critical discussions, contributing to a deeper understanding of Arctic challenges and opportunities.

Every year, AGU’s Annual Meeting convenes >25,000 attendees from 100+ countries to share scientific findings and make connections. Researchers, scientists, educators, students, policymakers, exhibitors, journalists and communicators attend AGU’s Annual Meeting to better understand our planet and environment, and our role in preserving its future. It is a results-oriented gathering rooted in celebrating and advancing positive individual and collective outcomes.