The Extended Continental Shelf Program is an excellent example of how cooperation across disciplines, sectors, and countries can advance scientific research.
The research team from the 2007 joint Canada-Denmark seismic project in Alert.
The Canadian Team
Scientists with the Geological Survey of Canada (part of Natural Resources Canada) and surveyors with the Canadian Hydrographic Service (part of Fisheries and Oceans Canada) collected scientific data under challenging conditions. The GSC and CHS are also responsible for interpreting the data, preparing the submission from a scientific and technical standpoint and supporting engagement with the Commission as it considers Canada’s submission.
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada is responsible for the legal aspects of the submission, for undertaking associated diplomatic work, and for overall engagement with the Commission.
Other departments and agencies were involved in collecting the data, including the Canadian Coast Guard, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (Environmental Assessment), Environment Canada (Canadian Ice Service and Environmental Assessment Office), Defence Research and Development Canada, the Department of National Defence, and Parks Canada.
International Collaboration
Canadian scientists have conducted research both independently and collaboratively in the Arctic and the Atlantic under challenging conditions. For operational and scientific reasons, it is highly advantageous to work with other coastal states in the collection and interpretation of scientific data (see Survey Missions Timeline to learn more).
In the Atlantic Ocean, Canada collaborated with its neighbours in the scientific work necessary for the submission, including with Denmark in the Labrador Sea and with the United States off the Scotian Shelf.
In the Arctic Ocean, Canada collaborated with its neighbours in the scientific work necessary for the submission, including joint surveys with Denmark and the US and cooperation with Russia.