The region around the North Pole is one of the largest natural areas on earth, a unique plant and animal world and the habitat of impressive peoples. And yet, the eternal ice is melting. The consequences of climate change and ruthless exploitation are advancing more quickly here than they do elsewhere. The largely visible consequences of this development include the receding of the sea ice, the melting of glaciers and the thawing of regions covered by permafrost soils. Even if it is not yet possible to gauge what this will mean for the Arctic, we must expect severe consequences for the Arctic and indeed the entire planet. This book aims to create a picture of the enchanting world of polar bears and northern lights and the challenging life of the Nordic people, to document the fascination of the Arctic and allow readers to experience the treasures of this landscape. It is also a strong appeal to pause for reflection, and to put an end to this unique region's destruction, which is currently being caused by the oil and fishing industries and by global climate change. The Arctic is of extreme importance for the climate stability of the entire planet and therefore must be protected. AUTHOR: Bernd Römmelt has worked as a freelance photographer and author since completing his degree in ethnology. He has travelled throughout the north for over twelve years. In addition to the countries of the Polar Circle, the Alps and the area surrounding his hometown Munich forms the focus of his work. His publications include The Inside Passage. Along the Wild Pacific Coast from Seattle to Alaska (2008). Dr Thomas Henningsen is a marine biologist and has worked on behalf of Greenpeace for over 15 years as a campaign coordinator for forest, ocean and climate protection. He has led many national and international campaigns and projects including the development of the International Arctic campaign, which emphasises the global importance of the Arctic as a living environment and as one of our planet's most important climate engines. SELLING POINTS: ? Spectacular nature photography. ? An environmental approach. ? A project of Greenpeace. CONTENTS: Northern America ? ?featuring?: animals Greenland ? ?featuring?: glaciers and ice Europe ? ?featuring?: spectacular landscapes Russia ? ?featuring?: people and their struggle with life The Arctic and the Climate Change ? a review about the high aims of Greenpeace *