Actions for Arctic biodiversity: An Interview with CAFF Chair Inge Thaulow

What inspires you about CAFF's work?

So much! I have to say the people are the first and foremost in my mind when I think about CAFF. We've had fantastic Board members over the years, and have been blessed to work with top experts in their fields; scientists, ecologists, hunters, Indigenous Knowledge holders, managers, and more. The unique approach of the Arctic Council is also very important to me, that States and Permanent Participants sit at the same table to shape the work and outcomes of the Council. This is very distinctive, and globally is unmatched. Over the years CAFF's cooperation with Observers has grown and deepened, so that we more global in reach, which is especially important for addressing concerns around migratory species. It is the collaboration across borders, disciplines and backgrounds that makes CAFF very inspiring. We are pleased to be supported by the CAFF Secretariat, which has always been staffed by dedicated and hardworking colleagues.

As everyone who has ever been to the Arctic knows, the Arctic is unique. It is full of vibrant, resilient life that is found nowhere else in the world. Many specialized species live here and we have a responsibility for their continued existence, which-in addition to intrinsic value-offer benefit, well-being and livelihood for those living in the Arctic. Arctic ecosystems are also different to many other more biodiverse regions of the world. When an Arctic species is removed from the ecosystem, or their role diminishes somehow, there are fewer species to take over that function, so small changes can have cascading effects throughout the entire system. Every Arctic species counts, so even while the Arctic is a resilient system, it can experience surprising changes that are hard to predict. We know the issues facing biodiversity are complex and interacting, but decisive action taken now can help sustain biodiversity and peoples.