Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984

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The Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984 (ARPA) is a piece of legislation enacted by the United States Congress to establish a comprehensive national policy regarding Arctic research. The act was signed into law on July 31, 1984, as Public Law 98-373.

Background

The Arctic region, critical for its natural resources and its impact on global climate, necessitated a structured approach to research and policy-making. Prior to ARPA, Arctic research in the U.S. was fragmented and lacked coordination, which led to inefficiencies and duplication of efforts.

Key Provisions

Establishment of the U.S. Arctic Research Commission

  • ARPA established the United States Arctic Research Commission (USARC), tasked with developing and recommending an integrated national policy for Arctic research. The Commission advises the President and Congress on Arctic research matters, promotes cooperation among federal, state, and local governments, and works with international partners.

=Interagency Arctic Research Policy Committee (IARPC)

  • It mandated the creation of the IARPC, which serves to coordinate federal agencies' research activities in the Arctic. IARPC is chaired by the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF). The committee includes representatives from various federal agencies, with the goal of implementing ARPA's objectives through interagency collaboration.

National Science Foundation as Lead Agency

  • The NSF was designated as the lead agency responsible for implementing Arctic research policy. This role involves ensuring that the requirements of the ARPA are met, coordinating research efforts, and managing the Interagency Committee.

Five-Year Program Plan

  • ARPA requires the preparation of a comprehensive five-year program plan for Arctic research, which must be updated biennially. This plan outlines the direction, priorities, and coordination of federal efforts in Arctic research.

Amendments

The act has been amended several times to reflect changes in national priorities and to enhance the effectiveness of the research and policy framework:

  • **Public Law 101-609** in 1990 which increased the number of commissioners and adjusted their composition. This amendment also revised some administrative aspects of the commission's operations.

Impact

  • ARPA has significantly shaped U.S. Arctic policy, fostering a more coordinated approach to research that involves multiple federal agencies, academia, and international cooperation.
  • It has influenced the development of subsequent Arctic policies and strategies, including climate change research and international collaborations through forums like the Arctic Council.

Current Activities and Challenges

  • The USARC and IARPC continue to play pivotal roles in Arctic research policy. They address issues ranging from environmental change to the socio-economic impact on Arctic communities.
  • Challenges include funding, the integration of Indigenous knowledge with scientific research, and adapting to rapid environmental changes due to climate change.

External Links

References

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