About the cover
The Imalirijiit Science and Land Camp (https://imalirijiit.weebly.com/) is a long-term project since 2016 with the community of Kangiqsualujjuaq, in Nunavik, aimed at monitoring the George River Basin and surrounding ecosystems. Each year, scientists, Elders, local experts, and Inuit youth gather on the land to monitor local ecosystems, exchange perspectives, and learn about western science and Inuit Knowledge. In addition to local monitoring and stewardship, Imalirijiit seeks to foster intercultural exchange and braiding, to nurture relationship and trust building, and to stimulate youth’s interest for natural sciences. In 2021, the Land Camp took place at Marralik, ‘where there is mud,’ a traditional site of unique biodiversity and cultural significance that has been used for generations of Nunavimmiut for hunting beluga and fishing. The site is bordered by vast stretches of seaweeds, including winged kelp, nutrient-rich delicacies consumed by Inuit. During the camp, scientists and youth hiked on the muddy shores of Marralik to explore, sample, learn about, and eat, raw seaweeds ().
Figure 1. During the Imalirijiit Science and Culture Land Camp, Inuit youth and scientists are learning about, and eating, seaweeds on the land. Photograph by Marianne Falardeau during the 2021 Imalirijiit Science and Culture Land Camp. 5 August 2021, Marralik, Nunavik, Canada.
Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research recognizes that Arctic and alpine research is often carried out on traditional Indigenous lands. AAAR recognizes the importance of the land and Indigenous Knowledge and encourages and supports research collaboration and attribution, and acknowledgement and respectful observance of Indigenous customs.
The well-being and sustainability of the Arctic and other cold region environments and all who live there rely highly on marine, coastal, and terrestrial ecosystem services. Throughout 2023, Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research will be addressing these topics in the special collection: “Ecosystem Services, Sustainable Development, and Socio-Ecological Health in Arctic and Cold Region Environments.”