The publications have been prepared by ICEBERG Work Package 3 (WP3), which focuses on analysing existing governance and management approaches and translating scientific insights into policy-relevant knowledge. The authors include Adam Stepien (University of Lapland), Annegret Kuhn (Center for Ocean and Society, Kiel University) and Ana Faria (AIR Centre).
“Across six policy areas, the publications highlight a number of challenges: the fragmentation of governance across multiple levels, limited administrative and financial capacity in Arctic regions, and gaps between existing regulations and their practical implementation – particularly in remote areas. At the same time, the policy papers identify examples of good practice that demonstrate how effective governance can be achieved under Arctic conditions and where lessons can be transferred”, reflects Adam Stepien, WP3 co-leader.
Key findings across six policy areas
The six policy papers and factsheets address the following themes:
Frameworks Supporting Beach Clean-Ups in the Arctic
The analysis shows that while marine litter is addressed through multiple international and national instruments in Iceland, Greenland and Svalbard, there is no dedicated governance framework for Arctic beach clean-ups. Responsibilities are often fragmented, funding is unstable, and coordination between actors is limited. The policy paper highlights the need for harmonised Arctic-wide protocols, improved data collection, and stronger support for local and Indigenous communities. Initiatives such as Clean Up Svalbard and the Arctic Coastal Cleanup are presented as examples of good practice.
Regulating pollution related to the extraction of minerals in the Arctic
Mining governance frameworks aim to balance economic development with environmental protection, yet limited administrative capacity and frequently changing legislation create uncertainty for both communities and investors. While Greenland’s mining legislation includes innovative elements such as social impact assessments and benefit-sharing mechanisms, challenges remain in supervision, mine closure, long-term liability and the treatment of climate impacts. Impact and Benefit Agreements and institutions such as the Nunavut Impact Review Board are highlighted as good practice.
Policies and Legislation for Combating Plastic Pollution
The policy paper underlines that the Arctic is disproportionately affected by plastic pollution, while international regulation remains fragmented following the stalled global plastics treaty negotiations. As a result, national and regional governance initiatives play a critical role. Persistent governance gaps include the management of lost fishing gear and plastics related to cruise tourism. Strengthening regional cooperation and institutional capacity is identified as a key priority.
Global frameworks to control persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals
Compared to other pollution types, POPs and heavy metals are governed by relatively effective global frameworks, such as the Stockholm and Minamata conventions. However, new chemicals, climate change impacts, and underregulated local sources – including waste management and legacy military or industrial sites – challenge existing approaches. Long-term monitoring and community-focused programmes are identified as major strengths that require sustained political and financial support.
Cruise Tourism in Greenland, Iceland and Svalbard
Rapidly growing cruise tourism brings economic opportunities but also significant environmental and social risks. The policy papers point to gaps in international regulation, particularly regarding wastewater, emissions and underwater noise, while national regulations are developing unevenly across Arctic jurisdictions. Voluntary initiatives play an important role but are limited by insufficient standardisation, coordination and monitoring.
Regulating Arctic waste and wastewater
While waste and wastewater regulations in Arctic regions are often aligned with European standards, implementation is constrained by high costs and limited local capacity in many small communities. Key challenges include insufficient monitoring, outdated infrastructure and emerging sources of microplastic pollution. The policy paper highlights examples of good practice that demonstrate the importance of targeted national support and innovative local solutions.
From governance analysis to policy recommendations
Together, the policy papers provide a synthesis and assessment of existing governance and management approaches, while the accompanying factsheets distil the main findings into a concise and accessible format aimed particularly at policymakers and stakeholders. The work has been carried out in close cooperation with ICEBERG Work Packages 1, 2 and 5, supporting science-to-policy dialogue and outreach.
“By establishing a clear picture of how Arctic pollution is currently governed, the policy papers create a solid starting point for formulating actionable recommendations. In the next phase of ICEBERG, this work will directly inform the development of policy briefs for policymakers at different governance levels”, Stepien summarizes.
All publications are available on our website.
