New Arctic edge

Norway has set a new definition on where the edge of the Arctic lies, according to a statement by Environment Minister Tine Sundtoft, clearing the way for the government to launch a new Arctic-focused oil and gas licensing round. Debate over the limit of the ice edge had delayed the launch of the new licensing round as some political parties argued that ice could reach into future exploration blocks, creating a safety hazard. Sundtoft said previous definitions were based on data collected between 1967 and 1989, while the new limits are based on data from 1984 to 2013. Norway plans to offer blocks to energy firms in the eastern part of its Barents Sea, following settlement of a 40-year border dispute with Russia. The Norwegian government’s new definition puts the edge of winter sea ice, measured at its maximum extent in April, 60 to 70 km north of areas opened to the oil and gas industry.