Go to frontpage

About the project

CAP-SHARE is concerned by biodiversity loss affecting Arctic ecosystems, communities, and livelihoods.

Aim

CAP-SHARE aims to strengthen the relationship between scientists, policymakers, and Arctic communities when it comes to decision-making regarding the protection of biodiversity and climate change mitigation. We will develop a model for effective collaboration towards biodiversity preservation and climate resilience within Arctic communities, with an emphasis on youth empowerment and the recognition of indigenous and local knowledge. All photos by Cécile Chauvat.

Our actions

We will develop a model for effective capacity sharing towards biodiversity preservation and climate resilience within Arctic communities. Through local and international action, we will also promote cooperation between communities, scientists, and policymakers. Activities, such as public online and in-person workshops in collaboration with local museums, and an international youth science symposium, will focus on building solutions based on the following themes: 1. Co-creating bridges between communities, policymakers, and scientists 2. Recognizing intergenerational, local and indigenous knowledge 3. Involving youth in place-based actions from conception to policy

Why is it important?

The sensitive biodiversity of the Arctic is threatened by factors such rapid climate change, habitat destruction and other human disturbance, and the spread of invasive species. Biodiversity is the foundation for the resilience of the ecosystem that Arctic communities depend on to thrive. However, the increasing disconnection among communities, scientists, and policymakers poses significant challenges to biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation. It is vital to bridge these gaps, particularly in rural communities where residents face pressing concerns about environmental degradation, climate change impacts, limited opportunities, and feelings of under-representation.

Our team

Iceland

  • Ragnhildur Guðmundsdóttir, PhD, Icelandic Museum of Natural History - Project Manager
    • ragnhildur.gudmundsdottir@nmsi.is
  • Jessica Aquino, PhD, Hólar University and Húnaklúbburinn - Communication Manager
    • jessica@holar.is
  • Cécile Chauvat, Icelandic Museum of Natural History - Project coordinator
    • cecile.chauvat@nmsi.is


Finland

Read more about the CAP-SHARE project on the University of Lapland portal.

  • Professor Pigga Keskitalo, the CAP-SHARE project leader at the University of Lapland, Faculty of Education
    • pigga.keskitalo@ulapland.fI
    • +358404844153
  • PhD Rauni Äärelä-Vihriälä, the CAP-SHARE project manager at the University of Lapland, Faculty of Education
    • rauni.aarela-vihriala@ulapland.fi
  • MSc Teppo Kuusela, the CAP-SHARE project expert, the University of Lapland, Faculty of Education the LUMA Centre Lapland
    • teppo.kuusela@ulapland.fi
  • MEd Heikki Tiilikka, University of Lapland. Faculty of Education - Junior Researcher
  • January - May 2025: Emma Karjalainen, University of Lapland. Faculty of Education - Master student and project intern


Norway

  • Jenny Turton, PhD, Arctic Frontiers - CAP-SHARE Project Leader for Arctic Frontiers
    • jenny@arcticfrontiers.com

Associated Partners

Iceland:

Norway:

Finland: