High Latitude Dust at the Arctic Circle Assembly 2024

The Arctic Circle Assembly 2024 in Reykjavík focused on important environmental issues, including the newly identified High Latitude Dust (HLD) and its impact on climate change.

The Arctic Circle Assembly 2024, held at the Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík from October 17^th to 19^th, brought together international leaders, scientists, and policymakers to address the pressing issues facing the Arctic region. One of the sessions was titled “Preserving the Arctic: Challenges Ahead,” a unique Czech-Icelandic session that discussed the emerging concerns and solutions related to the Arctic environment.

Highlighting High Latitude Dust (HLD) as a New Climate Forcer

The session emphasized the importance of understanding newly identified climate forcers, particularly High Latitude Dust (HLD). As glaciers in the Arctic melt rapidly, they create dynamic proglacial zones. These areas become significant sources of dust emissions, which can influence climate patterns and have far-reaching environmental impacts.

Experts discussed how HLD affects atmospheric conditions, accelerates ice melt by darkening surfaces, and contributes to broader climate change phenomena. The recognition of HLD as a critical factor underlines the need for targeted research and policy interventions.

Leveraging Earth Observations with Copernicus

The utilization of earth observation tools, such as data from the Copernicus program, was highlighted as essential in responding to Arctic challenges. Copernicus provides comprehensive environmental monitoring, enabling scientists and policymakers to track changes in the Arctic landscape, including dust movement and its effects on climate systems.

Collaborative Efforts and Networks

The session was organized through a collaboration of esteemed institutions:

Agricultural University of Iceland
Embassy of the Czech Republic in Oslo
UArctic Thematic Network on High Latitude Dust
Icelandic Aerosol and Dust Association (IceDust)
Association for European Life Science Universities

Introducing Iceland-Led Initiatives on HLD

Several existing networks led by Iceland were introduced:

Icelandic Aerosol and Dust Association (IceDust):
As a member of the European Aerosol Assembly, IceDust focuses on studying aerosol particles and dust phenomena in the Arctic atmosphere.
UArctic Thematic Network on High Latitude Dust:
This network promotes collaboration among Arctic researchers to improve understanding of HLD impacts.
NORDDUST:
Funded by the Nordic Working Group for Climate and Air (NKL) under the Ministry of Environment, Denmark, NORDDUST aims to study dust processes in Nordic regions and develop mitigation strategies.
Participation in WMO SDS-WAS:
Iceland is part of the Northern Africa, Middle East, and Europe (NA-ME-E) node of the World Meteorological Organization’s Sand and Dust Storm Warning Advisory and Assessment System (WMO SDS-WAS). This involvement connects Iceland to a global effort under the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and contributes to the UN Sand and Dust Storm Coalition.

Addressing the Challenges Ahead

The session concluded with a consensus on the need for intensified research, international cooperation, and policy development to tackle the challenges posed by HLD and the rapidly changing Arctic environment. The collaborative efforts showcased at the assembly highlight a proactive approach to preserving the Arctic, ensuring that future generations can inherit a sustainable and resilient ecosystem.

For more information on the Arctic Circle Assembly and ongoing initiatives to preserve the Arctic, please visit the official websites of the organizing institutions.