The Arctic isn’t just warming, it’s on fire. From the record-shattering 2023 wildfire season in Canada to the zombie fires smoldering beneath the boreal forests, Arctic wildfires are reshaping landscapes, threatening communities and accelerating global climate change. In this episode, learn about the changing fire regime and how Arctic wildfires impact everyone across the globe from Edward Alexander of Gwich’in Council International and Sue Natali and Brendan Rogers of the Woodwell Climate Research Center. Hear from Edward Alexander, Chief Bill Erasmus of Arctic Athabaskan Council and Vladimir Klimov of RAIPON, who share both the devastating impact wildfires have had on their communities, as well as the beneficial uses of fire practiced by their ancestors until colonization put a stop to Indigenous cultural burning. Finally, explore how restoring Indigenous fire practices and integrating knowledge systems could be part of the solution to improving wildfire management, promoting healthier ecosystems, revitalizing culture and building resilience. Show notes: https://arctic-council.org/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arcticcouncil/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arcticcouncilX: https://x.com/ArcticCouncil

This Way Up is the Arctic Council podcast that introduces you to the people and stories shaping a changing Arctic. Each episode explores an important topic in the Arctic through storytelling, where guests share their own unique experiences and ideas. But you won’t just learn about the issues, you will hear personal stories from across the circumpolar Arctic that showcase what makes the region and its Peoples so unique and inspiring. Whether you live in the Arctic, are familiar with the region or just curious, each episode opens your eyes to new perspectives on key Arctic issues, and perhaps even inspires you to take action. First episode comes out on Monday June 30.

This Way Up is hosted by Jessica Cook of the Arctic Council Secretariat and Rosa-Máren Magga of the Indigenous Peoples’ Secretariat. Original music by Emil Kárlsen, used with permission. Sound design by Både Og. The views expressed in this episode do not reflect those of the Arctic States and Permanent Participants. Learn more about the Arctic Council arctic-council.org