Q1. What environmental risks have been identified in relation to Real Ice’s research activities and methodology?
A. There is a risk posed by the presence of researchers on the ice, along with diminished snow depths associated with flooded sea ice, to local polar bear and seal populations that rely on the snow layer for natal snow dens critical for shelter and nursing pups.
We are also considering potential risks to the microbiology, including photosynthesising algae living at the base of sea ice, and to the upper ocean from our water-pumping activities.
We are planning further investigation through ice core and water column analysis.
Thickening of sea ice would also need to consider social concerns, including potential economic and cultural costs. We recognise that both environmental and social risks of ice thickening need to be better understood.
Q2. How will Real Ice mitigate impacts on wildlife & the environment?​
A. To mitigate disruptions, we will not operate in areas known to have nesting seal populations. Our technology is designed to minimise disturbance to wildlife and the wider ecosystem, aiming for a scalable system that can go unnoticed during operation.
We are working closely with scientific institutions and local communities to further research into possible implications on ocean biogeochemistry and will assess the impact of these findings as they arise.
Our underwater pumps are zero-emission and fully retrievable to prevent local pollution and long-term interferences, whilst also preserving habitat integrity and aligning with our Arctic stewardship principles.
Our research is progressing in careful, incremental steps so we can address concerns and refine our approach before any negative effects arise.
Our goal is to demonstrate that it is possible to restore and preserve Arctic sea ice in a way that supports local communities and protects wildlife and the environment.