Svalbard Social Science Initiative

Expedition cruise operations in the Arctic take place where environmental protection, governance frameworks, community interests, and tourism are closely interconnected. In Svalbard, decision‑making draws on scientific research, regulation, local experience, and operational practice, but these forms of knowledge do not always interact effectively.

The Svalbard Social Science Initiative (SSSI) explored how these knowledge systems can be better connected to support evidence‑based decision‑making. Coordinated by Nord University (Bodø), the initiative brought together researchers, policymakers, and practice‑based stakeholders to reflect on how knowledge about Arctic development is produced, shared, and applied.

AECO contributed as a practice‑based partner, sharing operator perspectives and operational experience from Svalbard. This work helped clarify how industry knowledge, long‑term presence, and engagement with regulatory processes can complement scientific research without compromising scientific independence. SSSI supported AECO’s Knowledge Pillar and complemented the Balancing Act project.