International Polar Year 2007–2008 

There is now less than one year left before the launch of the International Polar Year 2007-2008 (IPY), an intensive programme of internationally coordinated, interdisciplinary scientific research and observations focused on the polar regions. 

WMO has been actively involved in preparing project proposals for the IPY, in particular with regard to observational data and products, data management and information services, education, outreach and communication. Other contributions concerned historical records on climate and weather; health impacts and community sustainability; and human and ecosystem vulnerability to extreme weather events and natural disasters.   

An evaluation of all the proposals has been carried out. The criteria included scientific or educational significance; consistency with the IPY themes, regions and time frames; evidence of international collaboration; development of effective management plans; and evidence that proposed activities would contribute to an IPY legacy.  

Two-thirds of the endorsed proposals are related to studies of the atmosphere, climate change, polar oceans and ice. Sixty nations and a total potential participation of some 50 000 scientists are involved. 

See: http://www.ipy.org

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