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The Arctic Ecosystem

Despite its place as home to many coastal communities, it's incredible and unique
ecosystems, and the increasing threat it faces from climate change, the Arctic

Ocean remains one of the least protected places on Earth.

The Arctic Marine Ecosystem has a unique, complex food web that is fashioned by its
unique and highly specialised organisms. These include zooplankton, phytoplankton, jellyfish,
detritus, ice algae, as well as larger mammals such as seals and whales. Shared by 8 countries,
the Arctic holds the world’s largest reserves of fresh water. For those who live outside the Arctic,
the region is a vital regulator of climate and fresh water inflows for the entire planet, and a driver
of global ocean currents. The Arctic is important to all of us. However, the Arctic, including all of
its flora and fauna, is under severe threat from acidification, climate change, toxic pollution,
oil/gas exploration and production and overfishing.

“The ocean absorbs carbon emissions from the atmosphere—but as a result, ocean
waters are becoming increasingly acidic. Because colder water is more susceptible to ocean
acidification, the Arctic is among the first regions to experience its effects. Arctic waters are
already being affected by this change. Recent research suggests that by 2030, the surface