A Causal Knowledge Network of Interactions in the Arctic Marine Socio-Ecosystem

This dataset is the output of a workshop where 20 Arctic natural scientists gathered with the task of developing a conceptual model to describe the current state and future trajectory of the Arctic Marine Socio-Ecosystem (AMSE). This dataset seeks to characterize interactions between the primary elements of the AMSE. These interactions were characterized by experts in the field and are fully referenced and traceable. The dataset is semi-quantitative and details the direction, strength and uncertainty of each of the 484 interactions, using a set of methodology defined a priori which is described in detail in the README file. This dataset allows researchers and policy-makers alike to investigate the links between the major variables important to AMSE functioning and to visualize how physical, chemical, biological and human variables interact in a comparatively simple, yet comprehensive network. The resulting network can be applied as a tool for teaching, hypothesis development, to highlight areas for further research and policy initiatives, or as a starting point for quantitative models.

 Acknowledgments The development of this dataset was inspired by a workshop entitled “Towards a Unifying Pan-Arctic Perspective: Concepts and Theories” held at the University of Maryland, Center for Environmental Science, Chesapeake Biological Laboratory in Solomons, MD, USA in November 2016. The workshop was supported by a grant from NSF (National Science Foundation) (NSF) (#1638481 to JG) and further supported by USARC (US Arctic Research Commission), BOEM (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management), ONR (Office of Naval Research- Global), and IARPC (Interagency Arctic Research Policy Committee).