Description

The world is in the middle of three revolutions, one green, one technological and one infrastructural. Between 4 and 6 million people live in the Arctic. Northern communities are diverse societies, with modern urban, remote and sparsely populated areas, and thus face an array of possibilities and challenges. Indigenous peoples and local knowledge are driving forces in the Arctic, providing experience, competence and unique insights. Based on knowledge passed through generations we have the basis for thinking new and developing innovative solutions for a changing world.
As with other parts of the world, there is great interest in planning for greater sustainability, acces-sibility, affordability and healthier cities, towns and villages. How may technology and connectivity enhance resilience in arctic communities and promote a green economy?

The smart city concept is relevant also in the Arctic. New technologies, digitalisation and enhanced connectivity, as well as modern architecture, have the potential to enable arctic communities to adapt to, and benefit from, ongoing changes. Offering a modern way of life and family-friendly solutions is crucial for attracting young people and competence.

How can smart arctic communities adapt to the effects of climate change, the impacts of industrial development and foreign investment on local development and urbanisation? Indigenous peoples are unquestionably hugely impacted by climate change. However, traditional knowledge may serve as a basis for adaptation and sustainable development in the high north. In what ways do indigenous peoples apply modern technology in business development? How can we better connect the Arctic through space technology, communication systems and the resulting development and exchange of expertise and knowledge?

Program

6 September 2018

08:00 Registration of participants and welcome coffee

08:30 Words of welcome

Ole Øvretveit, Director, Arctic Frontiers

08:35 Welcome remarks

• Asii Chemnitz Narup, Mayor of Sermersooq
• Suzanne Møller, Pro-rector Ilisimatusarfik
• Willy Ørnebakk, Chair of Troms County
• Sandra Márjá West, Festival director, Riddu Riđđu

09:00 Session I Arctic societal development

Moderator: Gestur Hovgaard, Head of Institute of Social Science, Economics & Journalism, Ilisimatusarfik

• Willy Ørnebakk, Chair of Troms County
• Prof. Niklas Labba, Centre for Sami Studies, UiT The Arctic University of Norway
• Julie Rademacher, The Foundation for Entrepreneurship – Greenland
• Hjalmar Dahl, president Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) Greenland

10.00 CULTURAL BREAK

Sara Marielle Gaup Beaska together with a representative from Greenland TBA

10:30 Session II Tradition, resources, technology and business

Moderator: Ole Øvretveit, Director Arctic Frontiers

• Tillie Martinussen, Member of Parliament, Suleqatigiissitsiut/Samarbejdspartiet
• Rolf Skatteboe, CEO, Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT)
• Inga Dora Markussen, Head of Education and Training ,Royal Greenland A/S
• Christian Wennecke, Souschef Greenland Business
• Birger Poppel, Emeritus, Institute of Learning, Ilisimatusarfik

11:30 Concluding remarks

Venue