D1.3 Map of potential beneficiaries of a coordinated PRV fleet

Recent environmental changes and the associated potential for increased economic activity in the Arctic have triggered a demand for accurate sea-ice and weather forecasts, information on the environmental status of the Arctic Ocean, and predictions for future conditions in this region. Many of the consequent science and policy reports have highlighted how meeting this demand requires the establishment of an internationally coordinated sustained data stream from the Arctic Ocean, which relies on a sustained observation programs, in part supported and serviced by polar research vessels (PRVs) and research icebreakers (RIs). At present, these infrastructures are nationally owned and operated with limited possibilities for international coordination of efforts. This report studies the potential benefits of a better coordinated European PRV fleet. Four overarching categories of beneficiaries are identified: a) research, monitoring and observations b) PRV and RI operators c) institutions and funding agencies and d) society . The conclusion of the comparison of these beneficiaries is that bettering European coordination of PRVs would require significant, but mutually beneficial to all these four groups, changes in the ways the funding of research on and access to RIs and PRVs is organized. It would have high societal relevance by reducing the national cost of marine polar research through cost-sharing. It would also provide the data necessary for the local and global adaptation to the challenges and opportunities in a changing Arctic.