The Norwegian office of the International Polar Year has been a supporter of the Reindeer Portal and the EALAT research project, which is an International Polar endorsed project (#399).

The International Polar Year (IPY) was launched on March 1. 2007 and spans over a two-year period. During this time research resources and funding from over 60 countries will be coordinated in an extraordinary initiative to increase our knowledge about the Arctic and the Antarctic. The International Polar Year 2007-2008 is likely to be the largest, international research collaboration ever undertaken. It has become increasingly clear that the polar regions are fundamentally important to the entire globe. Recognition of this fact has become even more relevant as the Arctic is now undergoing dramatic climate change, which serves as the basis for the scientific objectives. However, these objectives are of a social nature as well, and it is hoped that International Polar Year will result in a better foundation for international cooperation on the management of Arctic resources.

Norway’s participation in International Polar Year. Norway will play a prominent role during International Polar Year 2007-2008, not least by virtue of its dynamic research communities linked to an extensive international network, as well as its excellent facilities and logistical support in both the Arctic and Antarctic. By allocating NOK 330 million over four years, Norway is also one of the largest financial contributers to the initiative.