AK SJR7

Alaska State Legislature opposes any United Nations designation of the Arctic Ocean as a World Heritage Site or similar designation that would impinge on U.S. sovereignty.

Scientists have proposed that the Arctic Ocean be designated a multi-location World Heritage Site to eliminate increased transportation, resource extraction, and other development in the area.

The Arctic Ocean contains significant amounts of oil, gas, and minerals that could be more readily accessed if the ocean becomes ice-free due to Arctic warming.

Managing the Arctic Ocean as a "sea park" would negatively affect the sovereignty of bordering nations including the United States, Canada, Greenland, Russia, and Norway.

Resolution directs copies be sent to the President and Alaska's U.S. Congressional delegation to encourage the United States to oppose any such UN designation.