Global Warming Threatens National Interests in the Arctic
2009
McCarthy, Jr, Thomas R.
Global warming has impacted the Arctic Ocean by significantly reducing the extent of the summer ice cover allowing greater access to the region. Greater access to the Arctic Ocean potentially threatens the United States' national interests in the region. Access to the United States' natural resources, specifically crude oil and natural gas, and to its territory and critical infrastructure must be protected. The United States must continue to engage the United Nations and the Arctic Council on issues that potentially threaten its national interests. The new Obama Administration should continue, improve upon, and support the international and domestic climate change initiatives that were begun under President Bush to include the nation's comprehensive energy strategy. In addition, ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea should be an immediate priority for the new administration. The Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense (DoD) must continue to study their requirements and plan for increased operations in the Arctic region, and DoD must continue to research and develop new and alternate energy sources for its forces. Global warming is a difficult challenge and its impact can only be mitigated by a holistic government approach.
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