Looking North: How Climate Change Impacts Coast Guard Operations in the Arctic

Commander John Z. Downing, USCG, Chief of Prevention at Sector Anchorage, oversees all marine inspections, marine casualty investigations, and waterways management in Western Alaska and the U.S. Arctic. He will lead a discussion on the impacts of climate change on their operations in the Arctic. Abstract: The Arctic is at a tipping point. Climate change’s negative environmental impacts have significantly influenced the maritime environment and increased the demand for essential marine safety work including inspections of vessels and bulk oil facilities. Rising sea levels and increased storm intensity pose challenges for coastal infrastructure and safe navigation. Warmer waters and ocean acidification impact marine ecosystems, affecting the health, abundance, and migration of marine life, critical for global food security and biodiversity. Melting sea ice has altered shipping routes and increased risk of casualties in previously inaccessible regions leading to unprecedented environmental disasters. Climate-driven changes in ocean currents and sea level rise amplify the risk of severe storms, flooding, erosion, and pollution in coastal villages. Adaptation strategies and mitigation measures are essential to ensure the continued efficacy of marine safety work and protect the well-being of coastal communities and the marine environment.