Arctic Imperative Summit to Convene in Alaska

Recognizing the Arctic is changing rapidly the Summit convenes decision-makers on infrastructure investment, natural resources, policy and security.

Rapid change in the Arctic due to melting sea ice brings new opportunities and challenges. To address the complex Arctic agenda, an influential mix of international, U.S. and local leaders will convene at the second Arctic Imperative Summit, August 24–27, 2012, in Anchorage and Girdwood, Alaska.

With a mission to sharpen the world's focus on the short-term opportunities and long-term challenges of Arctic development, the Summit features a multidisciplinary group of experts. By engaging with decision-makers from all sectors, Arctic leaders will be in a stronger position to influence responsible development decisions on their shores.

Program excerpt:

-Plenary sessions on infrastructure needs and investment opportunities in the U.S. Arctic, including a proposed Bering Sea port authority to manage traffic growth;
-Panel discussions on shipping and transportation developments, moderated by industry experts;
-Keynote speeches from military leaders on Arctic sovereignty and security;
-Perspectives and observations from indigenous residents, including "The Eskimo and the Oil Man," a conversation with author Bob Reiss and Edward Itta, former mayor, North Slope Borough, Alaska;
-Panel discussions on sustainable development, governance and the race for resources;
-Instructive case studies, such as the recent Renda fuel delivery to Nome;
-A screening of "Project Chariot," a documentary on the U.S. government's ill-fated plan to use a nuclear bomb to create a deep-water Arctic port in Alaska; and much more.

More information about the meeting can be found here.