European Launch of International Polar Year 2007-2008 on the 26th Feb in Strasbourg, France

Important note: Journalists must register with the European Science Foundation by the 16th February 2007 in order to be able to enter the European Parliament under its security policy. To register please email cschall@esf.org

On 26 February 2007, Europe formally launches its contribution to the largest and most ambitious internationally coordinated scientific effort for 50 years. The European launch of International Polar Year (IPY) 2007-2008 is one of a series taking place around the world to celebrate this major international scientific effort.

The polar regions are sensitive barometers of environmental change, and polar science is crucial to understanding our planet and our impact on it. Involving around 50,000 people from more than 60 nations, IPY heralds a new era in polar science.

At a time when climate change is being debated at the highest political levels, and its social and economic effects are being felt in many European countries, polar research has never been more important – or more relevant – to Europe and its citizens. Europe is making a major contribution to IPY. More than two dozen European nations are taking part in IPY, between them investing around €200 million in IPY science, education and outreach projects.

To celebrate this major international scientific event, the European Polar Board is hosting a one-day event showcasing a range of exciting IPY science projects, together with presentations from key European policy makers.

Speakers include: Dr David Carlson, Director, IPY International Program Office; Dr Artur Chilingarov, Deputy Chairman, State Duma of the Russian Federation; Dr Einar-Arne Herland, Head of Science Strategy, Coordination and Planning Office, European Space Agency; Dr Elizabeth Lipiatou, Head of Climate Unit, European Commission; Dr. John Marks, Director of Science and Strategy, European Science Foundation; and Professor Carlo-Alberto Ricci, Chairman, European Polar Board.

IPY is co-sponsored by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the International Council for Science (ICSU).