Defining a National Strategy for Arctic Alaska

Reprinted with permission from Maritime Executive.

The diminishment of Arctic sea ice has fueled serious interest in offshore oil and gas exploration and new navigational opportunities in the region. To keep pace with emerging challenges, the White House and U.S. Coast Guard have issued new plans outlining a national strategy for the region. While the plans are composed in broad strokes, one clear message is that this Administration does not intend to forge ahead but instead will follow closely behind commercial initiatives to help ensure responsible stewardship.