Polar Science Receives Boost from EU Collaboration

A new €2 million five-year EU-PolarNet programme is bringing together 22 of Europe’s internationally-respected multi-disciplinary research institutions to develop and deliver an integrated European polar research programme that is supported by access to first-class operational polar infrastructures.  The Horizon 2020-funded initiative will involve stakeholders from the outset to create a suite of research proposals whose scientific outcomes are directly relevant and beneficial to European society and its economy.

Polar issues have been rising up the political agenda across Europe over the past decade.  The level of investment now being made by governments is a clear demonstration of how critical polar research is for forming policies, including those relating to climate change, energy security, global food security, innovation and economic growth. 

Dr Andrea Tilche, Head of the Climate Action and Earth Observation Unit, in the European Commission DG for Research and Innovation, comments: "The European Commission welcomes this new Coordination Action which brings together polar scientific communities and other stakeholders.  It creates a new "home" where science and innovation on polar issues can be discussed for the benefit of our planet and our societies".

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is playing a leading role in the project. Director, Professor Jane Francis said: “I am very pleased to be involved with this new Coordination Action.  The UK has a vibrant scientific community and excellent polar infrastructure – especially in Antarctica.  With this new network there is huge potential not only to shape future European polar research programmes but also to enhance the high-quality operational support for science through even better cooperation and coordination.  Our clear ambition to connect science with society demonstrates our commitment to working closely with business and policy-making communities to generate new knowledge and advice that will help people live with and adapt to future environmental change.”

Full information about the programme and its participants is at www.eu-polarnet.eu