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Research
Objective

To generate scientific research, analysis and insight about the wildlife and ecosystem services of the region that informs the development of conservation measures.

The 90 North Foundation has formed a partnership with the University of Exeter (‘Exeter’), based on the vision and work of the Foundation aligning closely with Exeter’s ambition to invest significantly in the research, teaching and dissemination of environmental science to tackle issues of pressing global significance – especially in the marine realm.

Together, Exeter and the Foundation have set up the Arctic Ocean Research Unit (AORU) under the direction of Prof Brendan Godley. It is dedicated to researching the wildlife and ecosystem services of the region, along with relevant conservation policy research. Exeter has undertaken to absorb up to 40% of the full economic cost of the research posts within the AORU.

"The University of Exeter is home to a community of more than 300 marine researchers. We are focussed on increasing understanding of our oceans, learning how external influences impact them, and determining the actions we can take to mitigate risks from the climate and ecological crisis. The Arctic is a special place which few have visited but many value for its unique and dramatic ecosystems. It’s vital we better understand these current ecosystems, identify the risks they face and use this information to ensure the region is better protected for future generations. We are pleased to be working with the 90 North Foundation on the Arctic Ocean Research Unit, an ambitious partnership that will work to achieve these goals."

Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, University of Exeter

The ambition of the partnership is to initiate research as soon as possible, given the timeframe to secure the North Pole Marine Reserve by 2037. The research unit aims to secure £3.5 million per year from funding partners to cover its five research themes.

AORU objectives are:

  • To deliver short and long term research projects
  • To run an international CAO-focused scientific research group
  • To establish a professorial chair/associate professorship
  • To design, and promote internationally, a comprehensive research programme
  • To integrate the unit’s research with that of relevant research bodies and groups
  • To introduce research findings to the policy-making community
  • To partner with research vessel(s) making voyages to the Arctic Ocean/CAO
  • To run a network of ecosystem sensors across the Arctic Ocean/CAO
  • To establish the AORU as an authoritative research body whose contributions are trusted and valued by the relevant nations, policy-development groups and UN agencies.

Research Themes

Changing
Oceanography

Biodiversity
& Habitats

Ecosystem
Services

Emerging Stressors
& Risks

Governance &
Conservation Policy

All AORU research projects will be tightly focused on one or more of the ‘Criteria for Declaration’ required by the International Maritime Organization and/or Convention on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction in support of any proposed conservation measure.

In parallel with published scientific papers addressing the future impacts of commercial activities on the region’s biodiversity, the Foundation is also to commission reports covering the future prospects and impacts of the relevant commercial sectors in the Arctic Ocean.

"We're delighted to work with the 90 North Foundation to conduct this vital research, which will inform the management of this precious part of our planet. We want to understand how these Arctic ecosystems function, and how human activities can be sustainably managed. From plankton, via whales and shipping, to legal and policy issues, Exeter has a wealth of expertise in marine biodiversity and protection."

Professor Brendan Godley, Exeter Marine Research Group Leader, University of Exeter.