Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment

NOAA is working with international partners to enhance the safety of navigation in the Arctic.

Between 2013 and 2025, the Arctic Polar Code area has witnessed a 40% increase in unique ships, and a 95% increase in distance sailed by vessels in the area. Changing sea ice, increased Arctic shipping, and natural resource projects have led to significant growth in marine activity within a rapidly changing seascape. Despite many advancements in hydrographic surveying and charting in the region, mariners face ongoing data limitations and new risks associated with marine navigation in the Arctic.

To ensure safe passage, NOAA joins other hydrographic offices producing navigational charts in the Arctic region by incorporating the updated cautionary note into the United States Coast Pilot.

For more information, including the joint advisory to mariners from the Arctic Regional Hydrographic Commission (ARHC) and the Arctic Council's Working Group on the Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment (PAME), visit https://iho.int/en/arhc-and-pame-issue-joint-advisory-warning-of-navigational-risks-in-a-rapidly-changing-arctic

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