Today, vast changes in the Arctic zone have become one of the biggest challenges for the global community. Overfishing, the greenhouse effect and oil drilling are factors which are currently affecting the world’s climate. According to Dr. Martin Sommercorn: “If we fail to sustain the Arctic temperature, people all over the world will suffer the consequences”. Global warming will lead to floods, an increase in the amount of greenhouse gases, and extreme weather changes which will affect more than 25% of the world’s population.

Denmark has made a vigorous effort in sustaining the Arctic’s climate. The Kingdom of Denmark consists of Denmark, Greenland and the Faroe Islands, which are located in the Arctic Circle. While respecting the Arctic’s population and culture, they are taking specific responsibility to promote sustainable growth and the social sustainability of the area. Considering the climate’s effect and the increased interest which oil drilling companies show in the area, the need for a plan of action is substantial.

In this framework, the Embassy of Denmark in Berlin is organizing the exhibition “Arctic, our future” in an attempt to inform everyone about the Arctic and how important it is to sustain the Arctic’s vulnerable climate. The exhibition was dedicated to different aspects of the Arctic and informed the public about the arctic communities, climate change and the need for the wise use of raw materials and implementation of sustainable energy sources.

It is hoped that, through gaining a better understanding of the different aspects of the Arctic’s indigenous peoples, their culture and the environmental problems affecting the region, people will be encouraged to seriously consider the effects of environmental change and its consequences for the world at large.

• - http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/news/Blogs/makingwaves/at-8-million-strong-the-arctic-story-is-just-/blog/56831/
• - http://tyskland.um.dk/da/kultur/kultur-projekter/arktis/

News from Berlin
Vicky Milioti, Berlin Global