EU-PolarNet 2 began on 1 October 2020. In its first year, it focused on creating structures for smooth project performance and delivering key objectives. This included initiating research prioritisation, mapping stakeholder activities, European polar research programs, funding opportunities, calls for services, and preparations for EPCO. Stakeholder involvement was reinforced through discussions on integrating stakeholders and end-users from EU Polar Cluster projects. A professional company was engaged to host the moderated toolbox for coordination, the Catalyst platform.
During the second and third years, EU-PolarNet 2 worked on an “Identification Report of Critical Future Research Needs in the Polar Regions.” The research prioritisation process included three Calls for Services for pre-studies and three workshops with Indigenous communities, the maritime industry, and Antarctic and Southern Ocean stakeholders to inform research priorities. The project also engaged Polar operators and funders, identifying pilot studies to demonstrate the value of multilateral cooperation in European polar research. The Polar Expert Group, the EU Polar Cluster, and the EU-PolarNet 2 consortium were consulted for high-priority research topics.
Over the last 1.5 years, EU-PolarNet 2 secured its legacy by establishing EPCO as a long-term European platform for polar research coordination. Key achievements include developing EPCO’s governance structure, funding models, and work plans. With the European Polar Board (EPB) hosting EPCO from January 2025, a sustainable framework for European polar research coordination is in place.
The project played a pivotal role in preparing European contributions to the 5th International Polar Year, strengthening networks among funding organisations, polar operators, and EU institutions. Initiatives like the European Polar Science Week and Arctic Circle Assemblies, alongside collaboration with ESA, enhanced European and international research cooperation. Engagement with key international stakeholders, including IASC, SCAR, and the All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance, further solidified its impact.
Stakeholder engagement was a priority, with a dedicated Stakeholder Engagement Portal and significant contributions to Arctic governance literature. Indigenous communities and the maritime industry actively shaped policy recommendations and research priorities. The research prioritisation exercise identified key future needs, summarised in a widely disseminated report informing European and international research strategies.
In research optimisation, EU-PolarNet 2 facilitated collaboration between funding agencies, leading to best practices in resource-sharing and policy recommendations for Horizon Europe. Despite challenges in securing a dedicated polar research partnership, ongoing dialogue with national and EU bodies ensures continued advocacy for polar research funding.
EU-PolarNet 2 also provided critical policy advice, including a White Paper on polar observation and sustainability. Its outreach strategy, leveraging newsletters, social media, and conference booths, successfully communicated findings, ensuring sustained impact beyond its conclusion. With EPCO established, EU-PolarNet 2’s legacy will shape European polar research for years to come.
