St. Francis Xavier university

Published purpose

In a rapidly changing Arctic environment, search and rescue (SAR) capabilities and infrastructure will only become more essential and the challenges, concerns, and areas for capacity building identified by community responders in Nunavut need to be effectively and comprehensively addressed. An effective SAR system: 1) is a vital adaptation tool to help communities cope with Arctic climate change; 2) constitutes critical infrastructure required to support Inuit health and wellbeing; 3) is a necessary foundation for safe harvesting activities to address food insecurity. Strong SAR capabilities are also a prerequisite to economic development in the region and are required to bolster community resilience. The NSAR project’s multidisciplinary research team will build on four pillars rooted in core IQ values and laws. The first is Piliriqatigiingniq and Aajiiqatigiinniq, which will use regional roundtables to strengthen SAR relationships to build consensus on how to improve SAR in Nunavut. The second project pillar is Pilimmaksarniq, which will involve developing practical knowledge and skills for the organization, administration, and execution of community-based SAR operations. The third pillar, Maligait, will create a comprehensive model to facilitate continuous SAR planning and preparations for the future. Finally, the fourth pillar, Qanuqtuurniq, will support ongoing innovation and improvement in SAR operations.