SUSTAIN-ARCTIC - Advancing Climate-Neutral Research in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic Regions
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Abstract
The Arctic and Sub-Arctic are among the most climate-sensitive areas on Earth and play a critical role in the global climate system. Yet, research there depends on carbon-intensive infrastructures and operations due to harsh conditions and logistical constraints. The SUSTAIN-ICE project addresses this dual challenge: intensifying scientific observations while reducing the environmental footprint of research infrastructures (RIs) and field activities. Bringing together 11 institutions from 6 countries, SUSTAIN-ICE will develop, demonstrate, and promote scalable technological, digital, and methodological solutions for climate- and environmentally neutral scientific operations in the Arctic. Its overarching aim is to reduce the environmental impact of RIs, optimizing resource and energy use across their life cycle.
The approach integrates three perspectives: sustainable logistics, higher efficiency in field operations, and digital tools to limit physical presence without reducing observing capacity. For remote research stations, often disconnected from energy, water, and waste networks, innovative closed-cycle solutions for production, use, and disposal will be designed and tested under real conditions. Prototypes and real-case applications will ensure reproducibility and transferability. Field activities will be optimized to reduce their footprint, complemented by digital tools such as Digital Twins, AI, and Earth Observation. SUSTAIN-ICE will also engage Arctic communities and stakeholders to co-design solutions, build societal acceptance, and secure longterm legacy. A user-oriented online platform will provide best practices, validated technologies, and practical tools for sustainable Arctic research. By integrating operational, technological, and societal dimensions, SUSTAIN-ICE offers a transformative pathway to minimize the environmental cost of polar science while ensuring robust, year-round climate data collection.
People involved
- Massimo Santarelli (Principal Investigator)
- Marta Gandiglio (Component of the research team)
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ERC sectors
Sustainable Development Goals
Budget
| Total cost: | € 5,669,174.38 |
|---|---|
| Total contribution: | € 5,669,174.38 |
| PoliTo total cost: | € 741,562.50 |
| PoliTo contribution: | € 741,562.50 |