Welcome to the International Study of Arctic Change (ISAC) homepage. ISAC is an arctic environmental change program initiated in 2003 by the International Arctic Science Committee and the Arctic Ocean Sciences Board. ISAC's vision is one of timely, relevant, and accessible scientific information for responding to rapid arctic change.

MISSION 

ISAC is a program that provides a scientific and organizational framework focused around its key science questions for pan-Arctic research including long-term planning and priority setting.   

ISAC establishes new and enhances existing synergies among scientists and stakeholders engaged in arctic environmental research and governance.   

ISAC promotes observations, synthesis, and modeling activities to provide an integrated understanding of the past, present and future arctic environment needed for responding to change.   

ISAC fosters links between arctic environmental change initiatives and relevant global programs.   

ISAC in collaboration with partner organizations, provides authoritative and timely scientific information to stakeholders and decision-makers for responding to rapid arctic environmental change. 

GOALS

Observing Change: An international, integrated, comprehensive, and sustained arctic observing system responsive to scientific and societal needs for information on arctic change. 

Understanding Change: To improve projections of the arctic system and identify emerging issues. 

Responding to Change: Developing and communicating science for problem solving, managing, and adapting to future arctic changes. 

Arctic sea ice during the International Polar Year 2007-2008. Photo: M. Tjernstrom