AD Header Dropdowns  AD Main Menu  America is failing to meet
challenges of a changing Arctic  Andrew Holland OPINION: The
U.S. is not rising to the challenges and opportunities it faces
in the rapidly changing Arctic. Failing to acknowledge the
nature and scope of climate change in the Arctic has prevented
quick action and will allow other countries to make crucial
decisions for Americans.  America’s Arctic, roughly the northern
third of Alaska, is our country’s last frontier. The harsh
weather conditions, ice cover, and persistent darkness have made
it difficult for us to take advantage of the vast resources and
enormous opportunity of the region.  Today, the Arctic is
changing faster than any other region in the world. Sea ice is
melting quicker and the open ocean is lasting longer than at any
time in human history. Open water is darker colored than ice, so
it collects more heat, leading to further melt in a downward
spiral. In 2012, summer sea ice retreated to its lowest recorded
extent. While 2013’s ice