IMPACTS OF GLOBAL WARMING IN AN ARCTIC WATERSHED

Abstract

International efforts to control emissions of carbon dioxide and other trace gases are now being organized. If they are not successful, however, our planet may become warmer. High latitude regions, such as the Arctic, may experience a larger temperature increase than other regions. As part of the Government of Canada’s Green Plan, a five-year study on the impacts of global warming scenarios in the Mackenzie Basin is being organized, in cooperation with a number of government agencies, academia, native organizations and the private sector. A number of issues will be addressed, including the implications of potential changes in snow, ice and streamflow for hydroelectric power production, water resources management, fisheries, flooding, deltas, wildlife, winter and summer transport, tourism and defence. Possible changes in permafrost and vegetation will also be considered.