A Warming Arctic
With the Arctic warming three to four times faster than the rest of the world, future predictions of an ice free Arctic are clearly seen by some as an economic opportunity rather than a catastrophe that should be avoided. Those that desire to control a warming Arctic and the natural resources that may become more accessible as a consequence of such warming, view the Arctic as just another commodity to be exploited. The recent statement by one person that: “We will drill, baby, drill...” speaks volumes of these individuals, their desires and intentions.
I have been incredibly privileged to have spent time in the Arctic, to have watched and photographed the incredible wildlife that calls it home. I realise that I am part of a very small minority that have been fortunate to have done so. I appreciate and understand that there will be those amongst the majority that have not been to the Arctic that may not see it as I do, as a place of incredible beauty that should be protected for future generations.
The Arctic is not just another commodity to be controlled, plundered, exploited and contaminated. The Arctic is a vast and diverse environment, home to some four million indigenous people and some of the most incredible wildlife that can be found on this planet.
The reality is that we have very little time to act if we are to stop and reverse climate change, it may already be too late to fully do so. Whatever the uncertain future holds in store, the Arctic and the peoples and wildlife that call it home should be afforded the full protection that they deserve. A future where the Arctic is free of ice where the Isbjørn does not roam is not one that I wish to see.
Image made with the Nikon Z9 and 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens at 560mm. 1/2500 second, f4, ISO 400 with +2EV.
