THE ENVIRONMENTAL ATLAS—AN IMPORTANT STAGE IN ARCTIC RESEARCH

Abstract

In the present and future development of the Arctic region, much attention is and will be given to environmental problems. Along with social and economic, these issues are the most essential components of a model of sustainable development of the region. Cartographic studies implemented in the atlas format (either printed or electronic) provide the most comprehensive, adequate, and complete representation of the Arctic environment. Such Atlas will serve as a basis for creation of the Atlas Information System “Environment of the Arctic.” The material presented herein describes the purpose of the Atlas and its scientific-methodological principles. The Atlas includes 7 parts (thematic blocks) and over 18 sub-blocks that characterize natural and anthropogenic factors of formation of the natural environment, the state of the natural environment, population ecology, and efforts of Russian and international organizations aimed at optimization of the regional environment. The material also presents methodological features of the Atlas and its role in the study and management of Arctic territories.

Keywords

• arctic region, environmental issues, integrated mapping, thematic structure of the atlas