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Arctic Yearbook 2014
the first legally binding agreement under the auspices of the Arctic Council on cooperation in
Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue, which requires better readiness and safer
navigation in the Arctic Ocean, (geo)economics and economic interests seem to have taken over
(geo)politics and science, as well as environmental protection.
Finally, the voyage showed, and its record speed manifested, the fact that the sea ice of the Arctic
Ocean is melting and becoming thinner. If the sea ice is going to melt this fast, there might be no
solid multi-year sea ice in near future for activities in a summer time. Then we, the people, and
humankind have lost something very special, a part of the beauty of nature. From this point of
view the Olympic Torch Relay voyage to the North Pole with its nice pictures and videos can be
seen either as a picturesque and extreme excursion; or as an experimental endeavour with
international participation and in a new global context; or an ultimate presentation on behalf of
the snowy and icy marine Arctic ecosystem.
Sailing to the North Pole (Photo: Organizing committee of Sochi 2014)
Heininen