pdf SCAR XXXII WP28b: Future Directions in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Science: Horizon Scanning

SCAR XXXII WP28b: Future Directions in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Science: Horizon Scanning

Executive Summary

Title: Future Directions in Antarctic and Southern Ocean Science: Horizon Scanning

Author: MC Kennicutt II

Introduction/ Background: The SCAR Strategic Plan 2011-2016 calls for a “Horizon Scanning” activity every 4 or 5 years to support SCAR’s leadership role in Antarctic science and to assist the organization in planning future directions and resource allocations.

Important Issues or Factors: The Horizon Scanning effort must be coordinated with the Antarctic Conservation Strategy process and scheduled to inform preparation of the next Strategic Plan for SCAR.

Recommendations/Actions:  Form an Action Group to begin planning and fund raising for a “Horizon Scanning” activity to be tentatively held in 2014 coinciding with the SCAR biennial meetings in New Zealand.

Expected Benefits/Outcomes: The activity will enhance SCAR’s position as a leader in international Antarctic and Southern Ocean science. The outcomes from this process will support development of SCAR’s next Strategic Plan.

Partners: Organizations with a polar mission and/or a global mission with a polar aspect should be engaged in the activity. Experts in strategic planning and “futures” predictions outside the polar community should be engaged.

Budget Implications: The AG requests $5,000 each year in 2013/2014 for preparations for the activity and planning meetings. Funds for the activity itself will be raised from external organizations and is expected to be in the range of $200,000 to $250,000.