In this instalment of the All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance interview campaign, polar systems expert Dr. Nicole Biebow (Head of the International Cooperation Unit at the Alfred-Wegener-Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research (AWI)) sheds light on some of the planet’s most critical, and most vulnerable marine regions. Speaking from the frontlines of polar research, she reflects on why these ecosystems matter for the entire Earth system and the unique challenges of studying environments shaped by extreme cold, ice and isolation.
Polar regions are a key factor in regulating our ocean. Without the polar systems, the large-scale ocean circulation would not exist as we know it. The sinking of cold, dense waters in polar regions influences ocean currents, and maintains the heat and nutrients budget of the global ocean. At the same time, these areas also play an essential role in maintaining the Earth’s carbon balance, making them pivotal to achieve worldwide climate stability.
Recent scientific observations indicate that these ecosystems are experiencing unprecedented changes. Sea ice has been reducing dramatically, accompanied by the accelerated melting rate of glaciers. Dr. Nicole Biebow stated that the scientific community expects an ice-free summer in the Arctic by 2030. This shift would have dramatic consequences for weather patterns and climate conditions around the planet.
Research in the polar regions has historically served as a great enabler for international scientific cooperation. The extreme conditions, combined with the logistical complexity and high costs of working in these remote and harsh environments means collaboration and infrastructure sharing is essential. International panels and organisations have allowed for scientific collaboration, acting as facilitators for dialogues and data sharing.
Another important factor is the contribution of indigenous and local communities, particularly in the Arctic. These communities have lived in a close relationship with their surrounding environment for centuries and have gained detailed, experience-based knowledge of these ecosystems. Although incorporating this knowledge into scientific models can be challenging, researchers have recognised its pivotal role and take it into account alongside observational data and modelling systems.
The polar regions also have a significant economic value. A vast portion of the marine organisms in our diet depend on food webs rooted in polar ecosystems, and entire economies rely on resources linked to these regions. Changes at the poles are not restricted to the Arctic or Antarctic, but will rather affect ocean productivity, climate and livelihoods around the globe.
The All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance fosters collaboration and strengthens international partnerships. The Alliance is helping to ensure that research in polar systems remains a global effort — one that matches the scale and urgency of the change that is underway.
Dive deeper into how polar research contributes to other pivotal ocean topics by reading the report created during a side-event of the AAORIA Forum 2025: “Polar oceans and climate: Advancing synergies for long-term global collaboration”.
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