ARCNET

ArcNet, an Arctic Ocean Network of Priority Areas for Conservation, is a readymade framework that outlines priority areas for conservation across the entire Arctic Ocean and adjacent seas. Establishing a network of marine protected and conserved areas across the region strengthens the resilience of Arctic biodiversity. ArcNet is designed to spur on this process.

By 2030, Arctic nations have committed to setting aside 30 per cent of land and ocean to help safeguard nature. Protecting areas in international waters will also be possible once the High Seas Treaty has entered into force. ArcNet provides the tools for Arctic nations to deliver on these commitments and opportunities to steward the Arctic Ocean.

ArcNet is ready to be implemented across the Arctic. The framework includes a map, database, guide, tools and method and is designed to be inclusive and transparent. Having already identified a network of priority areas for conservation, ArcNet can:

Protect and connect Arctic biodiversity across the entire Arctic Ocean.
Help Arctic nations fulfil their commitments to conserving 30 per cent of the ocean and protect important areas within and beyond any one country’s jurisdiction.
Protect the Arctic’s marine biodiversity, which contributes to the well-being of all nature and people worldwide.

ArcNet addresses the conservation needs of Arctic marine biodiversity across ~5.9 million km2 of Arctic Ocean through a systematically designed network of 83 priority areas for conservation based on the best-available science.