Land transport is a central concern for northern and Arctic regions, where extreme weather, challenging landscapes and dispersed populations shape everyday mobility. This network brings together researchers and communities to examine the resilience and reliability of transport connections, the impact of new infrastructure, and the pressures on public, health and voluntary sectors delivering lifeline services. It also explores how innovations such as drones, autonomous vehicles and electrified networks might enhance access and connectivity.
Transport in northern places is deeply tied to identity, politics, sense of place and community life, often provoking strong views about development, sustainability and the future of such places. Journey making practices and norms and expectations also evolve over time, with consequences for northern communities. By combining technical, environmental and social perspectives, the network provides an interdisciplinary platform for understanding how transport shapes northern ways of life and how mobility systems can evolve sustainably and equitably.
The network will focus on sustainable, inclusive, optimised and innovative land transport systems in northern and Arctic regions. The network will address the unique challenges and opportunities of transport infrastructure in remote and northern areas, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, knowledge sharing, and capacity building across UArctic member institutions. The network will promote research and education on sustainable transport solutions; explore the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental impacts of transport infrastructure; and develop innovative approaches to address accessibility, mobility and sustainability challenges in Arctic regions.
Thematic Network Lead: David Gray
Thematic Network Vice-Lead: Wei Deng Solvang
