The 2008 Students on Ice youth expedition is now underway! The ship-based journey will explore southern Baffin Island, Nunavut and the northern reaches of Nunavik. 65 international students, aged 13-20, and a team of 30 scientists, polar experts, educators, artists and environmentalists. The team includes 22 northern aboriginal youth, as well as participants from Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, Austria, Norway, the United Kingdom, Monaco, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The expedition focuses on International Polar Year priorities, the impacts of climate change on the Arctic region and its people, the role of the Arctic in the earth’s ecosystem. Students on Ice aims to inspire future leaders and ambassadors for the planet.

Follow the expedition at http://www.studentsonice.com/arctic2008/. Daily updates will include student journals, videoclips, photos, and scientific updates. The expedition runs August 2-17, 2008.