In 2013, CAFF produced the Arctic Biodiversity Assessment (ABA). This assessment identified the primary factors impacting biodiversity across the Arctic and included recommendations to policy makers on how to address those stressors. One of the stressors is development, including resource extraction. Recommendation #4 of the ABA encourages all those working on development activities in the Arctic to incorporate biodiversity considerations in their planning and operations.
This report identifies key challenges and possible solutions for incorporating biodiversity considerations into mining operations in the Arctic.
A draft set of Arctic biodiversity principles was developed, based on the findings and recommendations of the Arctic Biodiversity Assessment (ABA). Basing the principles on the ABA ensures they are well-grounded in science, in line with Arctic Council priorities and will provide a robust framework for mainstreaming applications. We sought advice from ten people with experience in biodiversity mainstreaming and conducted a literature and website review. Results from the interviews and review are summarized and discussed.
