Nordic Ministers Urged to Tackle Arctic Shipping Pollution

The Clean Arctic Alliance has called on Nordic ministers to urgently address black carbon emissions from shipping in the Arctic in response to mounting climate threats in the region. At a recent session of the Nordic Council in Reykjavik, where ministers gathered to discuss sustainability initiatives and new regulations, the Alliance highlighted the crucial role of Arctic shipping regulations in mitigating climate impacts on the Arctic, referred to by scientists as a “ground zero” for climate tipping points.

Nordic Council Proposal on Polar Fuels

The Nordic Council’s Committee for a Sustainable Nordic Region advanced a proposal focused on regulating polar fuels. This initiative seeks further analysis and discussions with the goal of implementing a resolution in an upcoming session. By targeting black carbon—a potent pollutant with a significant warming effect when deposited on Arctic snow and ice—the Council aims to mitigate shipping’s disproportionate impact on Arctic climate change.

Climate Scientists Call for Action on Black Carbon

In an open letter to the Nordic Council, over 40 climate scientists emphasized the urgency of addressing black carbon, particularly in Arctic governance and policy. The scientists argue that rapid emissions reductions are essential to meet the 1.5°C target set by the Paris Agreement, warning of cascading impacts on global climate if tipping points in the Arctic are reached.

Clean Arctic Alliance Proposals to the IMO and Nordic Ministers

The Clean Arctic Alliance advocates for Nordic ministers to support stricter black carbon regulations through the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and, specifically, the development of “polar fuels”—fuels that produce lower black carbon emissions. The Alliance also calls for Nordic countries to implement domestic regulations mandating cleaner fuels in their own waters to reduce emissions from Arctic shipping.

Arctic Council’s Black Carbon Reduction Targets for 2035

Alongside the IMO efforts, the Alliance urges the Arctic Council to adopt ambitious black carbon reduction targets for 2035. The proposal suggests a 75% reduction in emissions by 2030 and 95% by 2035 within a broad Arctic area, including zones outside the Polar Code boundary.

Impact of Black Carbon on the Arctic Environment

Black carbon, a byproduct of incomplete fossil fuel combustion, is responsible for one-fifth of shipping’s climate impact, accelerating ice melt when deposited on Arctic snow. This melting reduces the albedo effect, which intensifies warming and contributes to the Arctic’s climate crisis. Studies also reveal black carbon’s health risks, including its detection in fetal tissues after maternal exposure.

By promoting regulatory change and advocating for “polar fuels,” the Clean Arctic Alliance continues to spotlight black carbon’s impact, pushing for urgent action as climate risks increase in the Arctic region.