Authors:
Ciara Sebastian*

* University of Regina

Originally presented at:
ICASS VII - Akureyri, Iceland

Abstract/Summary:
Does Canadian Arctic Foreign Policy do enough to develop Arctic Governance?

The Arctic Governance Project's Final Report, “Arctic Governance in an Era of Transformative Change: Critical Questions, Governance Principles, Ways Forward” was released in April, 2010. The Report critically examines existing Arctic governance arrangements and recommends adjustments and new arrangements that will ensure the future of functional, co-operative Arctic governance. The Report recommends the increasing involvement of non-state actors in Arctic governance. However, it recognizes that international influence still rests with the sovereign state. Therefore, the Report relies on sovereign states taking up the recommendations of the Report and adjusting their arctic policy to improve Arctic governance.

The Government of Canada released a new comprehensive social, economic, and foreign policy document in 2009. “Canada's Northern Strategy: Our North, Our Heritage, Our Future” identifies four areas of importance to the Canadian North: “exercising our [Canada's] Arctic sovereignty, promoting social and economic development, protecting the North's environmental heritage, and improving and devolving northern governance.” A “Statement on Canada's Arctic Foreign Policy”, building on the “Northern Strategy” and suggesting means of promoting the Strategy internationally, was released in August 2010.

This study analyzes existing Canadian Arctic Policy to determine the extent to which Canada's current Arctic Policy aligns with the recommendations of the Arctic Governance Project Report. This study then seeks to identify areas where improvement is possible and to suggest alterations to Canada's existing policy that would bring Canada closer to meeting the recommendations of the Arctic Governance Project Report.

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Poster Link: http://uregina.academia.edu/CiaraSebastian/Talks/38077/Evaluating_Canadas_Commitment_to_Arctic_Governance

Authors:
Rebecca Klady*, and John Innes*  

* The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada 

Conference Where Poster was Originally Presented:
Arctic Tipping Points 2011, Norway 

Abstract/Summary:
Who would have thought that something as simple as melting ice could illustrate so eloquently the vast web of interconnections inherent in our polar environments? Change one small part of the system, and suddenly we realise that something we understood heretofore as an unshakeable foundation, now appears to be a house of cards. In this regard, impacts of climate change in the Arctic, ranging from global to local, are by no means restricted to environment, but encompass a wide range of other impacts, including societal, economic, political and legal.

As part of the initial stages of my Doctoral research, I will present an initial analysis of the range of issues and players that will be involved in observed and upcoming changes in the Arctic. Specifically, I am interested in the environmental and social implications of commercial shipping in Arctic waters, which fits within the broader context of how northern aboriginal communities can negotiate for a sustainable future in the face of a warming Arctic. The various key concepts related to my research topic will be illustrated and their relationships mapped. Furthermore, this initial analysis will identify the main questions relating to the larger context of my work, while focussing on the specific question around commercial shipping, emphasizing sustainable development from the perspective of local communities. 

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* University of Nice, IDPD, FR
** University of Milan, IT   

Originally Presented at:
Porquerolles, France, June 2010   

Abstract:

The extension of the continental shelf in the polar regions is a controversial topic. Involving rights recognized by the Law of the Sea Convention, the will to improve the management of these marine areas and to define a balance of activities depends also on a resolution of territorial claims. However, the specific assessment of the continental shelf varies depending on the institutional development that regions are subject to—a development that will have implications for the analysis and interpretation of the continental shelf submissions.
The delimitation of the continental shelf reveals the difficulties of comparing and transposing the institutional experience from one region to another.   

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* University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
** Queen's University, Kingston, Canada  

Originally Presented at:
Arctic Frontiers Tipping Points 2011, Tromso, Norway, January 23-28 2011  

Abstract:

Inuit estimates of polar bear sex, age, size, and age of track from tracks could contribute to a non-invasive, Inuit-based polar bear activity survey that also includes genetic analyses of non-invasive tissue samples and multivariate analyses of digital images of tracks. Prior to the inclusion of these Inuit track estimates, they need to be evaluated for reliability and accuracy. Building on previous work, which suggests active Inuit hunters are more reliable than elders and non-Inuit in observing tracks, we report i) reliability in estimates of sex, age, size, and age of track of 78 tracks by 9 Inuit hunters; ii) preliminary accuracy in sex and size estimates; iii) semi-structured interviews with Inuit hunters regarding their polar bear tracking experience and techniques; and iv) potential relations between Inuit hunting experience and ability to diagnose tracks. The Inuit hunters were reliable and consistent as a group in making estimates of sex (α=0.74 and mean corrected item-total correlation=0.45), age (α=0.81 and mean corrected item-total correlation=0.63), and size (α=0.91 and mean corrected item-total correlation=0.73), as well as age of track estimates with the exclusion of a single participant (α=0.85 and mean corrected item-total correlation=0.63). Preliminary accuracy assessments suggest Inuit hunters are generally accurate in their estimates of sex (mean 74.42% agreement with genetic sex estimates) and potentially size from tracks, warranting further efforts to determine accuracy in all estimates. Interviews with these hunters across 3 Nunavut communities revealed they use similar tracking techniques. In addition, Inuit hunting experience and the use of particular tracking methods may relate to reliability and accuracy in track diagnoses. These results suggest the information that Inuit hunters provide may contribute to polar bear monitoring using tracks.   

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*School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences, University of Alaska - Fairbanks, USA 

Originally Presented at:
2011 Alaska Marine Science Symposium, Anchorage, Alaska 

Abstract:

Pacific salmon species have increased in the Arctic Ocean during the last 10 years. Traditionally the communities along the Beaufort Sea have harvested pink and chum salmon, but increasingly Chinook and sockeye salmon are caught. This study documents and explores the use and knowledge of all Pacific salmon species in Beaufort Sea communities. We seek to understand local knowledge of the changes in salmon abundance, species composition, and related environmental factors in the region.

Semi-directed interviews have been conducted with 16 local subsistence fishers in Barrow. Expert fishermen and elders were identified by local leaders; snowball sampling was used thereafter. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed. Qualitative data analysis with Atlas.ti is currently underway. Geographic information was collected via participatory mapping methods about the location of salmon catches and other observations of change. Initial results suggest that salmon have not historically been an important subsistence resource; local fishermen have difficulty differentiating between species of salmon; some fishermen consider salmon to be a nuisance species clogging nets; fishermen are not aware of local salmon spawning locations; coastal erosion is affecting fishing practices; many fishermen and community members expressed concern about the possibility of the future development of a commercial fishery for salmon. Outreach activities in the community of Barrow have included a salmon identification lecture, radio interviews, and fishing derby development. We are currently extending this study to include the communities of Nuiqsut and Kaktovik. 

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*Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública – ENSP/Fiocruz 

Originally Presented at:
I Workshop APECS Brazil, 14 and 15 October, 2010. Rio de Janeiro

Abstract:

The Brazilian Antarctic Programme (PROANTAR) is a civil-military committee. Navy is responsible for the Base Group, logistic and station maintenance. This research consists of indirect observation of group interaction, structure and culture in Antarctic. We interviewed 19 Brazilian scientists from Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo that worked in Antarctic on the years 2005, 2006 and 2007. Interviews were taped for further analysis. Each scientist was considered a spokesman for the group as a whole. Their discourses were analyzed on the light of group psychodynamic approach and discourse analysis technique. Our results show that there are three types of small groups: EACF group; the boat group - NapOC Ary Rongel and the camping group. Each group presenting their own characteristics and culture. The interaction between scientists and Base Group is important for their well being and research accomplishment. The chief of station is seen as autocratic or democratic leader, depending on his personality. Antarctic experience has impact in scientists personality and promotes development for boundary feelings with others and coping the environment; creates a sense of belonging to a community - the Antarctic community. Antarctic is a place of personal transformation and place attachment. Thanks to CAPES and FIOCRUZ for the research financial supporte. 

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Author(s):

Abhijeet Bhatia*, Caspar Johnson*, Sudhir Khandelwal** 

*National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research, Goa, India
**Dept of Orthopaedics, Maulana Azad Medical College, Delhi, India

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:

Objectives:

To present the improvised management of a case of Lumbar Disc Prolapse with Sciatica in a remote location

Study Design: Case report

Methods:

A 43 year old mechanic from the Indian Antarctic Station, Maitri presented with acute low back ache radiating to the left lower limb following heavy physical activity during a convoy. He was clinically diagnosed as a case of Lumbar Disc Prolapse with Sciatica. He was put on continuous traction using a device improvised out of a mountaineering harness, rope, karabiner and barbell weights. Treatment was guided by online specialist advice.

Results:

Backache and lower limb pain reduced substantially after 20 days of continuous traction. Straight leg raising increased from 30⁰ to 60⁰. The patient was gradually mobilised and resumed normal convoy duties after 3 months.

Discussion:

A case of disc prolapse at L5-S1 level typically presents with low backache following heavy physical labour. It may radiate along the back of thigh & calf. Straight Leg Raising test, if positive between 0-30°, as in our patient, indicates acute disc prolapse. Magnetic Resonance Imaging is the investigation of choice. Our patient in Antarctica was diagnosed with Lumbar Disc Prolapse purely clinically since MRI facilities were not available.

The simplest treatment for acute, discogenic, back pain is rest. However, if the patient does not respond, traction may cause remission, as it did in our patient. Since a lumbar traction kit was not available to us, a mountaineering harness was substituted for successful improvisation.

Conclusion:

a) Clinical judgement is necessary for diagnosis of Lumbar Disc Prolapse in the absence of MRI

b) Improvised traction may be useful in the treatment of Lumbar Disc Prolapse. 

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Author:
M. M. Kalentchenko*

*The Council for Interdisciplinary Research, Russia

Originally Presented At:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
The challenges of preserving the Arctic nature from adverse impacts of human activities are recognized internationally. In situ conservation is one of the tools of preserving biodiversity of the Arctic actively advocated by the environmentalist groups.

As far as marine protected areas (MPAs) are concerned the efficiency of management largely depends upon cross-sectoral coordination and transboundary implementation. However coastal states also need efficient legal background for such coordination. Therefore the legal dimension of MPAs under Russian jurisdiction in the Arctic needs to be addressed.

To understand the prospects for the establishment and development of the MPAs in the Russian Arctic the existing national regulations were screened and compared to the internationally recognized concepts of MPAs.

Nowadays site based conservation (including maritime spaces) is stipulated by Especially Protected Nature Areas Act N 33-FZ, 1995 and Environmental Protection Act N 7-FZ, 2002. The former provides for six management categories of in situ measures (called “especially protected nature areas” or EPNAs) where the management regime and status are strictly linked. However, the scope of this act is limited to the Russian territory whereas the latter is applicable also at the EEZ and the continental shelf. Environmental Protection Act, 2002 stipulates that in situ protection may be effected through establishing of either EPNA or other “especially protected area” stipulated by other laws. These laws are ratione loci based Continental Shelf Act, 1995, Internal Sea Waters, Territorial Sea and Contiguous Zone Act, 1998, Exclusive Economic Zone Act, 1998, and ratione materiae based Subsoil Act, 1992 and Fisheries Act, 2004. The regime and status of measures provided for by the above acts, though, may conflict with the measures stipulated by Especially Protected Nature Areas Act, 1995.

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*Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
Nunatsiavut, the Inuit region in Northern Labrador, has undergone major changes in the last few years that currently have an impact on the development perspectives of this remote region. In 2005 the Labrador Inuit were the last Inuit group in Canada to sign a land claim agreement (Labrador Inuit Land Claim Agreement) with the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. New political institutions on the regional (Nunatsiavut Government) and community level (Inuit Community Governments) were created. Compensation payments and new ownership structures of land opened up new opportunities for the Inuit. At the same time, especially in the economic sector new trends can be witnessed that will have a major effect on traditional economic settings and employment structures. Fisheries, as the traditional economic sector along the Labrador coast is currently struggling and losing its influence whereas mining projects like the Voisey’s Bay Nickel Mine of Vale Inco Newfoundland and Labrador Limited are gaining importance.

The private sector in the Nunatsiavut communities is trying to profit from those new developments and to contribute to the economy by creating job opportunities for local residents. The following poster is based on a study conducted by the author in Nain in the summer of 2008. Data is derived from semi-structured interviews with local business owners, representatives of the Nain Inuit Community Government as well as the Nunatsiavut Government.

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* McGill University, Department of Geography, Montreal, Canada
** Arctic Health Research Network, Iqaluit, Nunavut

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
This study explores through a mixed methods approach some of the determinants of food insecurity amongst users of 3 community food programs in Iqaluit, Nunavut. Important issues affecting the food status of participants(n=8) were identified through Photovoice workshops. Findings suggest that factors improving food security status include sharing of traditional foods and the presence of community food programs as a support mechanism. Factors identified by the group as negatively affecting food security were the high cost of food in the Arctic and substance abuse.

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Independent scholar

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
Axel Hamberg is well-known for his geological and hydrometric field research in the mountain massif Sarek in the north of Sweden. Less known is his entourage of helpers, carriers and assistants that he used under all his years of research in the area. One of the most hired assistants was a Sámi man named Lars Nilsson Tuorda (1858-1930). Since Hamberg was present only two, three months, at the best, in Sarek every year, and still had to have continually registrations of the field research instruments in the area on a yearly basis, did he hire men such as Tuorda for the tasks.

Tuorda made registrations and measurements of ice-cores, water evaporations, snow depths, wind and gusts, as well registrations of solar time. He was also responsible to hire other helpers and extras such as carriers for the so-called “mountain travels” for example for transports of scientific equipments and groceries. Tuorda also herded Hamberg’s reindeers, animals that were used on the transportations routes, and later he became in charged of maintenance of the huts that were built on different field research locations. Tuorda also had an economical responsibility such as when paying salaries to the hired staff, or buying equipment to keep the wheels of field research running. Without Tuorda’s, and other helper’s efforts, Hamberg could not have been able to keep the field research results on a regular, annual basis for well over two decades.

But in Hamberg’s public scientific were the entourage’s efforts never acknowledge. It is only in his field research diaries we can see what great amount of help he got in the Sarek research field organisation that was set up. My presentation aims to focus on one of his greatest and most important assistants, Tuorda, and his work.

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* Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
** Institute for Circumpolar Health Research, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada
*** Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
Background: The current practice in northern Canada is to transfer pregnant women residing in communities without hospital facilities to larger centres at 37 weeks gestation. Little research has been conducted on how the practice of transferring women for childbirth affects available prenatal care continuity and prenatal care options, and whether or not this in turn affects health outcomes.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to provide a baseline overview and examine whether differences exist in prenatal care, risk factor distribution, and neonatal morbidity, between women who are transferred for childbirth, and women who are able to remain in their home community to give birth.

Methods: Secondary analysis of the Canadian Maternity Experiences Survey 2006-2007 data was conducted in order to examine the relationship between transfer for childbirth, prenatal care, maternal risk factors, and neonatal morbidity. Crude odds ratios and adjusted odds ratios were calculated to assess the relationships between variables using multiple logistic regression, with bootstrap weights applied.

Results: Women who were transferred for childbirth were less likely to receive ten or more prenatal care visits and were less likely to receive care before 14 weeks gestational age. Women who were transferred for childbirth were more likely to experience a negative neonatal morbidity outcome, though this relationship disappeared when the relationship was adjusted for potential confounders. Smoking during pregnancy was the only risk factor shown to be significantly associated with neonatal morbidity in this study.

Conclusion: More detailed and widespread data collection is needed to be able to properly assess prenatal care, maternal risk factors and neonatal morbidity in northern Canada. Differences in outcomes for women who are transferred for childbirth should be taken into consideration when planning service delivery for prenatal programs in remote communities without birthing services.

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*Climate System Research Center, Department of Geosciences, University of Massachusetts
**Gateway Antarctica, University of Canterbury, New Zealand
***Institute of Marine Research, University of Coimbra, Portugal
****APECS/University of Tromsø, Norway
*****University of British Columbia

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
We present results from a survey of graduate students and early-career researchers (GS-ECR), which was conducted in early 2009 and sought to better understand common characteristics and opinions regarding Inter-disciplinary research (IDR) among these stakeholders. Supported by the Association of Polar Early Career Scientists (APECS), the survey was created out of a New Generation of Polar Researchers workshop focused on integrating multidisciplinary research during IPY. Summary results from the 132 responses suggest a disparate set of backgrounds, objectives, and opinions on how IDR objectives and goals might best be achieved.

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Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, Oslo, Norway 8-12 June 2010

Abstract:
The understanding of techniques and strategies that use Nature as inspiration for the creation of forms generate new artistic sensitivity in the architecture of polar zones. Under the current rapid changes of polar environment from the climate, social and economic points of view, implementation of bionic principles can generate new suggestions in architecture and engineering.

The aim is to synthesize knowledge derived from the biotechnological analysis of natural forms and vital systems. Research to date made possible a range of new options, previously unimaginable, that provide innovative contributions to polar architecture, weather applied to high-tech or traditional construction.

Polar bionic architecture, correlated with the provisions of the international environmental protection legislation, can be a new target in the observance of the polar environment in its specificity. In this regard, as a particular case, we conceive the improvement of the conditions in Law-Racovita Station in East Antarctica, the generation of a study space for the winter, the energy regeneration.For the design of organic eco-structures inspired by the natural (geological and biological) forms and rhythms, the architect’s purpose will be the development of sustainable social and technological progress, through a balance between Technology and Nature.

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Authors:
M. Ip*, Doubleday, N. C.**,  Boyle, S.*

* Azrieli School of Architecture and Urbanism, Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada
** Department of Philosophy, Faculty of Humanities, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, 8-12 June 2010 in Oslo, Norway

Abstract:
Architecture allows a people to express their identity, culture and aspirations in an evocative and tangible way. The people of Cape Dorset, and specifically the community justice and healing teams, have long sought after a centre that reflects their identity and provides a place where local culture is nurtured, regenerated and expressed in new ways to restore community confidence, as well as engaging remediation at the individual level. This case study explores the relationship between traditional knowledge, spatial and material concepts with contemporary technology in a changing socio-cultural and environmental context. The research is manifested in the design of a cultural healing centre, where architecture, as a formal expression of cultural identity, serves in a rejuvenating role.

Collaborative design workshops were held with community Elders, youth, the healing team and the community justice team to discuss various layers of ‘healing’ in the programmatic functions of a centre, and how they could be solved in architectonic and spatio-temporal contexts. The resultant drawings and discussions were transferred into a design that acts as a mnemonic device that brings together traditional and current ideas of architecture. This inclusive design strategy is meant as a potential step towards greater cultural relevance and influence in the physical design of northern communities; the designs produced are left in the community as reference and evidence of cross-cultural expressions.

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Authors:
Katelyn Friendship*,**, Susie Berneier**,***, Chris Furgal**,****, Eric Dewailly**,***, Kristeen McTavish*,
in collaboration with Nunatsiavut Government and Ittaq Research and Heritage Committee

*RavenQuest Consulting, Whitehorse Yukon
**Nasivvik Centre for Inuit Health and Changing Environments, (Trent University, Université Laval)
***Unité de recherche en santè publique, CHUL Research Centre, Québec, Québec
****Indigenous Environmental Studies Program, Trent University, Peterborough, Ontario

Originally Presented at:
IPY Oslo Science Conference, 8-12 June 2010 in Oslo, Norway

Abstract:
Inuit communities are reporting changes in individual attitudes towards traditional fats and contemporary fats. This study is investigating the changing nature of perspectives on traditional and contemporary fats and the impacts of these perspectives on diet and other behaviours among Inuit in Nain, Nunatsiavut and other Inuit communities. This project is being conducted in collaboration with the Nunatsiavut Government under the IPY funded project on marine fats and Inuit health: URQSUK.

The project aims to develop and apply a survey tool to increase our understanding of fat choice behavior and to determine what Inuit residents believe is necessary and possible to ensure food security for future generations. To build this tool, 9 focus groups were conducted with participants 14-70 years of age (23 women, 26 men) in July 2008 in Nain Nunatsiavut. Focus groups are planned for early 2010 in one other Inuit community in the Canadian Arctic.

Preliminary results from Nunatsiavut indicate that participants have noticed changes in fat thickness in country food species over time. Observations were primarily associated with caribou and bird species. Contrary to our preliminary hypothesis, it is not only among younger participants that behaviors to cut down or stay away from ‘fat’ in the diet were mentioned but more so among participants within the middle age groups, 30 years and over. Based on these results a survey is being developed to investigate the representation of these perspectives among the community population in early 2010.

A better understanding of perceptions of fats through this research project will help to address the needs of northern health and wildlife/environment professionals in promoting healthy food choices and of capturing early observations of Inuit experts (hunter and Elders) of possible shifts taking place in marine and terrestrial ecosystems associated with climate and other forms of environmental change.

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*Gothernburg University, Sweden
**University of Oslo, Norway
***Aarhus University, Denmark
****Norwegian University of Life Science, Norway
*****Queen's University, Canada

Originally presented at:
International and Interdisciplinary IPY Polar Field School, Svalbard, Norway. 7 July 2010

Abstract:
Canada is a world leader in mineral and metal export; yet, mining in the Arctic has traditionally been limited by:
•Lack of infrastructure
•Remoteness of resources
•Transportation costs
•Lack of skilled labour

In recent years, the rising price of metals and minerals has refocused attention on the high-quality reserves located in the Canadian Arctic. The presence of industry near Inuit communities has many environmental, economic and social repercussions. Understanding the impacts of mining is critical in the sustainable development of future operations.

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Authors:
Regina Peldszus*, Hilary Dalke*

* Design Research Centre, Kingston University London, UK

Originally Presented at:
Integration of Design and Science: Light, Materials, Colour and Environment,  Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), London, UK

Abstract:
In future long duration space missions that go beyond Earth orbit, one of the critical factors for success will be the psychology of the crew. Due to the length, remoteness and degree of autonomy of such missions, the environmental design of the spacecraft itself gains increasing importance as support measure for emotional wellbeing.
This paper reviews aspects of lighting and colour related challenges relevant to the design for capsule habitats in extreme environments, such as polar and space. These are characterised not only by isolation and inhospitability to humans, but can also present specific environmental conditions such as stark colour features in their landscape, or altered daylight cycles. In addition, habitation design has traditionally made use of colour and lighting as tool for safety and housekeeping applications.
After outlining the basic challenges related to altered situational conditions in extreme environments, this paper provides a collection of issues in psychological habitability that are currently, or can potentially be, addressed through colour and lighting design intervention.

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Authors:
Erin Neufeld*, Gary Steel**, and Bryan Storey*

*Gateway Antarctica, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, NZ
**Lincoln University, Lincoln, NZ

Originally presented at:
Antarctica New Zealand Annual Conference, Auckland, July 1-3, 2009

Abstract:
When one thinks of Antarctica there are many images and ideas that might come to mind; ice, snow, penguins, cold, explorers, isolation, and the wild to name a few. Popular literature suggests that these are all common ways in which people envision and connect with Antarctica. It is important to note, though, that each person will have a unique connection due to their history, their experiences, and their culture. This latter aspect is, of course, of special interest in New Zealand. My research will explore the many ways in which people develop a sense of ‘place' for Antarctica.

Succinctly stated, the focus of this PhD will be the connections to Antarctica felt by New Zealanders; from researchers and staff who return year after year to live and work on the Ice, to people who have barely even thought of the far-off continent. Using semi-structured interviews, data will be collected from participants who represent a broad spectrum of experience with Antarctica. Theoretical development regarding sense of place, based on an interactionist framework (Relph, 1997), will take place via multiple case study analysis, with an emphasis on social, affective, identity, and physical feature themes of  the data.

This development of ‘sense of place’ theory has been lacking for extreme and remote environments. Given that the polar environments are difficult to reach and difficult to know, but still carry a potentially serious effect on such global issues as climate change, information about people’s perspectives of the continent is badly required. More importantly, this information must be grounded in properly defensible, scientific method.

Beyond this, however, the analysis of perceptions and attachments to Antarctica gathered from across the experiential spectrum of New Zealand participants will be useful for management and policy development. Knowledge of the ways in which the icy continent is viewed will provide much-needed information to those whose decisions can have long-term and large impacts on Antarctica's natural and built environment.

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