Driving climate knowledge forward in NunatuKavut through youth engagement and monitoring
The NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) has designed and implemented a community-based climate monitoring project that is community-led and community-driven. In its third year, this program engages youth as climate change interns in various coastal communities throughout NunatuKavut. Monitoring is done monthly and the collection of climate change indicators will be used to track changes yearly. The project aims to gather and increase both Inuit traditional knowledge and western scientific data that will help our communities make decisions as they face the challenges of climate change.
The climate change interns are directly supervised and mentored by NCC’s Guardians. Interns have been trained to use equipment and collect and document field samples. They monitor indicators such as:
- Ice and snow measurements;
- Water and air temperature;
- Water characteristics/quality;
- Weather observations; and
- Any other observations noted during their field work (e.g., wildlife presence).
In addition to providing our youth interns with new skill sets and climate change knowledge, NCC is hoping to inspire ownership of the project and expose them to the possibilities for their future. This may include educational pursuits and opportunities within their communities, NCC and beyond.
Hannah Russell & Chloe Campbell, Charlottetown 
Adam Smith,
Mary’s Harbour
Lucas Penney & Maverick Butt, Port Hope Simpson 
Desirae Burden,
Pinsent’s Arm
If you have any questions please contact:
Charlene Kippenhuck
Manager, Natural Resources
E: ckippenhuck@nunatukavut.ca
P: 709-896-0592 ext. 230