Climate Change in the Arctic - The Changing Arctic Environment: The Arctic Messenger - page 295

3. Even if we are callously ambivalent to the Arctic impacts of SLCFs, we do not
escape impacts wherever we live. Remember that the Arctic is an essential
element of the global climate system.
4. Almost by definition, the contribution of SLCFs to climate warming would dis-
sipate quickly if their emissions were significantly reduced. This is an oppor-
tunity we do not have with CO 2 because of its very long residence time in the
ocean. We should seize it with both hands. The CLRTAP Gothenburg Pro-
tocol (by addressing small particulate air pollution - for example, BC) is a
good start, but it will be toothless until countries implement the new obliga-
tions and, of course, it is restricted to the UNECE region. Why not also find a
way to increase its geographic scope?
5. Taking action on SLCFs should not distract from the necessary efforts to reduce
anthropogenic CO 2 emissions; the two are complementary and not alternat-
ives.