Field Tests

Researching Arctic sea ice thickening

Testing a simple technique

Arctic sea ice is reaching record lows. Even in the most optimistic decarbonization scenarios, the Arctic Ocean is predicted to experience ice-free summers before 2050. Without the sea ice blocking the heat from the sun, the Arctic Ocean will warm, accelerating the climate crisis and potentially leading to a series of devastating climate tipping points. 

Sea ice thickening is a direct climate cooling approach aimed at thickening the ice by pumping sea water from below the ice onto its surface during the freezing winter months. In our research, we explore the benefits and the risks this methodology.

The hypothesis we are testing in our field tests by flooding the sea ice surface, consists of two parts.

• Promote ice growth from the top, which directly harnesses the frigid air and circumvents the self-insulation of the existing ice cover.

• Reduce the highly insulation snow layer on the ice surface, which can potentially accelerate bottom growth of the ice cover.

By thickening the sea ice, we seek to determine whether we can responsibly restore the Arctic summer sea ice and its natural reflectivity. Thickening the sea ice may also help unique Arctic wildlife and local Inuit communities who crucially depend on the sea ice for their way of life. 

“This intervention is not an alternative to reducing CO₂ emissions. But is it responsible to have no plan B? We think we should have at least explored other options.”

Tom Meijeraan, Co-founder, Arctic Reflections

Responsible research

We strive to conduct this research in an environmentally responsible way and prior to each field test we conduct in-depth environmental impact assessments. We also recognise the vital importance of engaging Inuit communities ethically and equitably in our work. As we research sea ice thickening as a climate intervention, we are committed to aligning our practices with the Circumpolar Inuit Protocols for Equitable and Ethical Engagement, developed by the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC). 

The evolution of Arctic Reflections

From our first models in 2021 to our third field test in 2026 – here’s how our journey has unfolded. Each field text brings us closer to understanding where we can restore rapidly disappearing Arctic sea ice.

Reports, summaries and findings from each field test can be found below.