ABSTRACT
Oil spill planning, preparedness, and response activities are always complex. That complexity is often compounded in northern regions due to challenging environmental conditions (for example (e.g.), cold temperatures, darkness, ice coverage) and remoteness. The period of open water in the Arctic is increasing as seasonal ice clears or melts earlier making shipping routes in this region more attractive. The extended ice-free season enables an increase in marine traffic, especially cruise ships and pleasure craft. This increased frequency and extended season of vessel traffic coupled with increasing economic opportunities may increase the risk of spills into these vast, remote waters. Compared to the established Canadian response regime south of the 60th parallel, response readiness and capacity are not currently at the same level in the Arctic. It is important to recognize the challenges and opportunities that exist in this region to ensure that planning and preparedness activities are carried out in a meaningful, efficient, and appropriate manner. Spill response in the north presents many challenges such as environmental conditions, resource and access limitations, and suitable training of local response personnel. There are also gaps in sensitivity and shoreline mapping and an overall deficiency in comprehensive oil spill response planning in this region. Over the past few years, Triox Environmental Emergencies (TRIOX) has completed multiple oil spill preparedness activities in these challenging settings, mainly in the northern regions of Canada, for marine and land-based infrastructures. These experiences have provided relevant insights into the key challenges for preparedness activities in these locations. This paper compares our own observations against preparedness criteria from the internationally recognized guidance document on oil spill preparedness and response from International Petroleum Industry Environmental Conservation Association (IPIECA). The primary elements considered are in relation to plan development, training, equipment, and engagement with local communities and Indigenous groups to support the improvement of preparedness activities in northern regions. The three pillars of response including preparedness, response, and restoration must apply to all regions including the Arctic to protect this vulnerable and valuable region.