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Research
Objective

To generate scientific research, analyses and insights about the wildlife and ecosystem services of the region that informs the development of conservation measures.

90 North Foundation has a partnership with the University of Exeter (‘Exeter’), based on the vision and work of the Foundation aligning closely with Exeter’s ambition to invest significantly in the research, teaching and dissemination of environmental science to tackle issues of pressing global significance – especially in the marine realm.

Together, Exeter and the Foundation have set up the Arctic Ocean Research Unit (AORU) under the direction of Prof Brendan Godley. It is dedicated to researching the wildlife and ecosystem services of the Central Arctic Ocean and wider Arctic Ocean, along with relevant conservation policy research.

"The University of Exeter is home to a community of more than 300 marine researchers. We are focussed on increasing understanding of our oceans, learning how external influences impact them, and determining the actions we can take to mitigate risks from the climate and ecological crisis. The Arctic is a special place which few have visited but many value for its unique and dramatic ecosystems. It’s vital we better understand these current ecosystems, identify the risks they face and use this information to ensure the region is better protected for future generations. We are pleased to be working with the 90 North Foundation on the Arctic Ocean Research Unit, an ambitious partnership that will work to achieve these goals."

Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive, University of Exeter

The ambition of the partnership is to initiate research as soon as possible, given the timeframe to secure the North Pole Marine Reserve before the CAO becomes seasonally 100% ice-free by as soon as 2035. The research unit has five research themes.

AORU objectives are:

  • To deliver short and long term research projects
  • To run an international CAO-focused scientific research group
  • To design, and promote internationally, a comprehensive research programme
  • To integrate the unit’s research with that of relevant research bodies and groups
  • To establish the AORU as an authoritative source of research whose contributions are trusted and valued by the relevant nations, policy-development groups and UN agencies.

Research Themes

Changing
Oceanography

Biodiversity
& Habitats

Ecosystem
Services

Emerging Stressors
& Risks

Governance &
Conservation Policy

"We're delighted to work with the 90 North Foundation to conduct this vital research, which will inform the management of this precious part of our planet. We want to understand how these Arctic ecosystems function, and how human activities can be sustainably managed. From plankton, via whales and shipping, to legal and policy issues, Exeter has a wealth of expertise in marine biodiversity and protection."

Professor Brendan Godley, Exeter Marine Research Group Leader, University of Exeter.