Terrestrial permafrost is any earth material that exists at or below 0° C continuously for at least two consecutive years.

Coastal permafrost represents the transition zone between Arctic landmasses and a highly-seasonal and vulnerable coastal ecosystem.

Subsea permafrost is the continuously frozen ground beneath the seabed.

Coastal waters represent the near-shore Arctic Ocean areas, that are supplied with the organic matter and carbon discharge from coastal and riverine permafrost areas.

Permafrost thaw impacts human health in various ways. Through the release of contaminants and infections, through impacts on food and water security and via socio-economic repercussions.

Most human infrastructure in the Arctic coast is built on permafrost. Permafrost thaw poses a risk to the existing infrastructure and must be taken into account in planning future constructions in the area.

Ecosystem services will be affected by permafrost thaw. The quantity of the impact and the way the communities perceive the change are central to efficient natural resource management.

The Earth System Models play a significant role in predicting future climate change. Permafrost thaw is one of the processes that is currently still largely missing in the ESM framework.

Analysis of the risks and challenges of permafrost thaw to Earth’s climate and the vulnerable coastal communities is essential in planning future adaptation strategies.

The coordination and data management of the Nunataryuk project together with the communication and dissemination activities.