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North3 is sponsored by Canada's embassies in circumpolar countries in cooperation with the IISD. Please visit us!
Canada's Embassy:
· in Russia
· in Finland
· in Sweden
· in Norway
· in Denmark
· in Iceland
· Canada and the Circumpolar World
2007-08 is the International Polar Year, involving an extensive program of scientific research about the North. The International Polar Year is also an occasion to reflect on the circumpolar world and consider what steps we should take to ensure a brighter future for our common northern home.
Communication across vast northern distances was once very slow and difficult. Today, the internet allows us to share easily our experiences and points of view. By learning about each other, we will help our North develop, and grow stronger.
If properly planned and carefully managed, economic activities in the North, such as mining and drilling, can strengthen communities and provide long-term employment.
A key element of planning and management is the concept of sustainable development. This concept requires that a careful evaluation be made of economic activities to identify their impact on the environment, on employment and on the community.
Some key questions which must be asked are:
The goal of sustainable development is to ensure that development meets present needs without jeopardizing the needs of future generations. Effective monitoring and management help ensure that economic development benefits northern residents.