International Polar Year  
2007-2008  

What is the International Polar Year (IPY)?

IPY will be a period of intense, coordinated studies of physical, biological, and human and social processes, interactions and feedbacks in the Arctic and Antarctica. During IPY, researchers will work at the frontiers of polar science to improve our knowledge and understanding of the role of the polar regions in the global environmental system.

In addition to research programs, the U.S. Vision for IPY, formulated by the National Academy of Sciences, makes the following recommendations with respect to education and outreach:

1. Develop programs in education and outreach that build on the inherent public interest in the polar regions and provide a broad lay audience with a deeper understanding of the polar regions;

2. Create opportunities for education, training and outreach for all age groups that build on existing models, as well as involve the development of new and innovative approaches; and

3. Develop the next generation of researchers, scholars, professionals and leaders, and include under-represented and minority groups.

Find out more about the International Polar Year by visiting:

• The University of Alaska/University of the Arctic International Polar Year website


• The International Committee to the International Polar Year website


• The U.S. Committee to the International Polar Year website


• The U.S. Geological Survey International Polar Year website


• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration International Polar Years website


• The Canadian Committee to the International Polar Year website


• The European Science Foundation International Polar Year website


• Classroom resources pertaining to the International Polar Year


• Classroom resources pertaining to the the polar regions