Looking North: Northern England and the National Imagination (Studies in Popular Culture)

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As the Arctic’s climate changes and people’s appetite for alternative travel experiences increases, so does the number of visitors. The UK has also committed to establish a standing response force built around the Littoral Response Group (North). Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2021, its longevity is a testament to the important role the Council has played in promoting peace and cooperation in the Arctic.

The UK recognises the growing pressure to extract deep-sea resources and is deeply concerned about the potential impacts of mining activities on the fragile marine environment. The Northern Group (also a UK-led initiative) will continue to provide a valuable forum for information-sharing and the discussion of defence and security issues relevant to the wider region. As the Initiative develops, we advocate an approach that minimises negative impact on the Arctic environment while maximising the economic benefit for communities, which will also suffer the most disruption. We recognise the role of the Arctic Economic Council (established by the Arctic Council in 2014) as an independent organisation to facilitate business and responsible economic development through sharing of best practices, technological solutions and standards. The UK is committed to working on the international stage to ensure effective governance and environmental protections are in place to regulate ships operating in Arctic waters as they become more accessible.Separately, a significant proportion of the fish consumed in the UK originates in the Arctic Ocean and neighbouring waters. The framework reiterates that the UK will remain an active, influential and reliable partner in the Arctic. Looking North is a new exhibition that presents work by artists from the North-West of England and highlights many exciting recent additions to the Arts Council Collection.

We will continue to take a science-led, precautionary and ecosystem-based approach to the management of existing fisheries in which we have an interest, as well as working with Arctic coastal States on the management of any potential fisheries that might emerge as a result of changing migratory patterns in the central Arctic Ocean. The UK continues to develop links with the Faroe Islands in areas including green energy transition, digital and transport connectivity, and sustainable tourism. The Royal Navy is a routine visitor to Norwegian and neighbouring Arctic waters and our Air Forces coordinate closely in the region.Our six specially-equipped aircraft are capable of carrying out scientific measurements and logistical support to science projects in the Arctic. But the opening-up of the Arctic brings risks of heightened economic competition, and of insecurity between state actors. Any development and economic activity in the region must be conducted to the highest standards, and in a safe and sustainable way to protect uniquely precious Arctic ecosystems. The Arts Council Collection collects, commissions, conserves and loans ground-breaking art to galleries and museums all over the UK.

The High North and Arctic will potentially play a major role in meeting our energy demands in the years to come, and the potential for more accessible navigation routes may offer economic opportunities for UK trade in the future. The UK is strongly opposed to the hunting of any cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises), other than some limited activities by Indigenous communities for clearly defined purposes. Between January and November 2021, 70% of the UK’s seafood imports came from countries within the Arctic region. He spent hours admiring the bay, wanderings into the docks, between the sea and the industrial infrastructures. You may re-use this information (not including logos or images) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open Government Licence.

It is important that projects meet international standards and best practice, such as responsible lending, sustainability and alignment with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, appropriate project design, and transparent procurement.

The UK Flag offers world class surveyors, regulation and policy support – vital assets for any business looking to grow and expand. The UK remains committed to its status as a member of the Arctic Security Forces Roundtable (ASFR), utilising the opportunity to share information on the changing environment, de-conflict activity in the Arctic, and identify opportunities for further co-operation.We will continue to engage with our Arctic partners and Allies to contribute to ongoing critical work, and we stand ready to recommence participation in multilateral cooperation across the Arctic region when appropriate. The UK’s geographical position means we stand to benefit significantly from the opening-up of these new maritime trade routes. Following COP15, the UK will continue to lead the Global Ocean Alliance, and play a central role within the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People, continuing to advocate for international ocean action and supporting implementation of the 30by30 target.