Fairbanks Chamber Weekly Business Luncheon: Opportunities for Fairbanks & Alaskans During the 2016 Arctic Science Summit Week

Opportunities for Fairbanks & Alaskans During the 2016 Arctic Science Summit Week

Larry Hinzman: Interim Vice Chancellor for Research

​The University of Alaska Fairbanks is hosting the year’s largest international gathering dedicated to the Arctic—the Arctic Science Summit Week, Arctic Observing Summit, and related events—from March 9-20, 2016. The event will bring nearly 1000 scientists, policy makers, technical experts, educators, and other Arctic authorities from over 20 countries to Fairbanks to develop a better understanding of the Arctic environment and its role in the global policy. The Summit will provide an opportunity to showcase UAF research and the expertise and capabilities of Alaskans, which could lead to new research, business opportunities, and solutions to the challenges we face in Alaska. Many of our challenges are common to other Arctic nations, so partnerships built during this week will facilitate understanding, explore solutions, and provide resources to address emerging, high profile issues such as search and rescue, community-based monitoring, changes in fisheries, and infrastructure development required to support transpolar shipping and tourism. The presentation will provide useful logistical information about the conference, an overview of the public engagement activities being planned, and opportunities for Fairbanks businesses and leaders to get involved and engage in this unique international dialogue about the Arctic.