Japanese Arctic projects’ contributions to the Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement

Abstract

One of the project goals of the Arctic Challenge for Sustainability II (ArCS II) is the social implementation of research results to assess risks and to develop policies that allow effective management. The Central Arctic Ocean Fisheries Agreement (CAOFA) set an example for such social implementation with a collaboration of social and natural scientists from the ArCS II. Here, we examine the contributions of the ArCS II and earlier Japanese Arctic studies to the CAOFA based on the implementation plan of the CAOFA's Joint Program for Scientific Research and Monitoring. Japan's research results were useful for prioritizing research areas and assessing the marine environment and ecosystem mainly in lower trophic levels on the Pacific side of the Arctic Ocean. Future contributions to the CAOFA are expected through the scientific surveys to be conducted by a Japanese new icebreaker.