Research & Data
Climate Science
From Faroese marine research to international climate assessments—the scientific institutions tracking climate change in the North Atlantic and beyond.
1.1°C
Global warming since 1850
2-3x
Arctic warming vs global
70+
Years of Faroese data
2050
Net zero target year
The Faroe Islands have contributed to climate science for over seven decades through continuous monitoring of the North Atlantic. This strategic location—where ocean currents converge and Arctic conditions meet temperate waters—provides data critical to understanding global climate patterns. The resources below connect Faroese and Nordic research with the broader international scientific community.
North Atlantic Climate Research
The Faroe Islands occupy a unique position in global climate science. Located where warm Atlantic waters meet cold Arctic currents, the islands serve as a critical monitoring point for understanding ocean circulation and climate change. Havstovan (the Faroe Marine Research Institute) has maintained continuous oceanographic measurements since 1951, creating one of the longest time series of its kind. This data is essential for tracking changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), which regulates European climate.
Arctic Amplification
The Arctic is warming two to three times faster than the global average—a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification. This disproportionate warming has profound implications for the Faroe Islands and the broader North Atlantic region. Sea ice loss, shifting fish populations, and changing weather patterns are already observable. The Danish Meteorological Institute monitors these changes across the Danish Realm, providing forecasts and climate projections that inform policy in the Faroes, Greenland, and Denmark.
European and Nordic Cooperation
Climate science requires international collaboration, and the Nordic countries have long been leaders in this effort. The Nordic Council of Ministers coordinates regional climate research and policy, while the European Environment Agency tracks environmental indicators across the continent. The Faroe Islands, while not an EU member, participates in European research programs and contributes valuable data from the North Atlantic—a region that influences weather patterns across the entire Northern Hemisphere.
Global Context
The IPCC synthesizes research from thousands of scientists worldwide, including contributions from Nordic researchers. Their assessments provide the scientific foundation for international climate policy. Understanding how global trends interact with regional conditions—like the unique oceanographic setting of the Faroe Islands—is essential for effective climate adaptation. Local observations feed into global models, while global projections inform local planning.
Why This Matters
Regional climate data from the Faroe Islands and North Atlantic informs global climate models and local adaptation strategies alike. Understanding both the science specific to our region and the global context helps communities prepare for the changes ahead while contributing to the worldwide effort to address climate change.
Essential Resources
Authoritative sources for further reading and research.
Havstovan
Havstovan - Faroe Marine Research Institute
The Faroe Islands' primary marine and climate research institution. Long-term monitoring of North Atlantic oceanography, fish stocks, and marine ecosystems since 1951.
DMI
Danish Meteorological Institute
Weather, climate, and oceanographic services for Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. Arctic climate monitoring and sea ice forecasts for the North Atlantic region.
IPCC
IPCC - Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
The definitive scientific assessment of climate change, its impacts, and future risks. The gold standard for climate science used by governments worldwide.
EEA
European Environment Agency
Independent EU agency providing environmental information. Climate change indicators, adaptation strategies, and environmental data for Europe.
Nordic Council
Nordic Council of Ministers - Climate
Intergovernmental cooperation on Nordic climate initiatives. Joint research programs, policy coordination, and regional climate adaptation across Scandinavia.