BBC Airs Segment on Arctic Research After Visit to North Slope of Alaska

Published: 31 August 2005

A visit to the North Slope of Alaska in late May by journalists from the British Broadcasting Company (BBC) resulted in a news segment on BBC Four, the network’s “most intellectually and culturally enriching channel.” During their visit, they interviewed scientists from various research organizations with facilities in Barrow, asking them about climate research in the Arctic, and inquiring how scientists were addressing the concerns and responding to observations of climate change by the natives, particularly elders. Their interviews with ARM operations staff lasted about an hour, contributing to the 30-minute radio segment which aired on August 8.

ARM operations staff showed the reporters some of the instrumentation on the “skydeck” at Barrow, and explained that the ARM science mission—established over a decade ago through a long, rigorous process—is focused on providing data for scientific analysis and decision making. They also noted that the ARM Education and Outreach program works closely with community members in relating climate science to native concerns, as evidenced by the interactive kiosks in ARM host communities.

The BBC is one of the world’s largest news organizations, operating a broad range of television and radio programs in multiple languages. BBC Four balances a mix of documentary, performance, music, film and topical features as alternative to traditional mainstream programming.