'BlueInvest helped us cross the ocean—both literally and figuratively. Thanks to our coach, we refined our business model and expanded our reach into Canada and the U.S.' said Tom Meijeraan, co-founder of Arctic Reflections.
Arctic ice and global climate balance
The Arctic is warming 3 to 4 times faster than the rest of the world, making it a critical factor in global climate regulation. 'Extending the lifetime of just 1 km² of sea ice by one month in summer can have the same cooling impact as reducing the yearly carbon emissions of 200 cars for 20 years,' says Tom Meijeraan.
The Arctic ice is such a significant factor because it reflects most of the incoming solar energy back into space through its natural white surface. As the ice continues to melt, the world could face increasingly severe consequences for ecosystems and weather patterns.
This is where Arctic Reflections comes in. Inspired by Dutch ice masters who ensure the quality of ice for ice skating, the team pumps seawater onto the sea ice, allowing it to freeze rapidly and create a thicker ice layer.
A science-driven approach
The team’s work aims to scientifically validate the benefits of ‘Arctic ice thickening’ in mitigating the effects of climate change on Arctic ice. It is strongly interdisciplinary, with collaborations from Cambridge University, Delft University of Technology, and the UNIS Research Centre in Svalbard.
To achieve this aim, field tests are being conducted to ensure the solution is effective without causing harm to the local ecosystem. This scientific foundation ensures that every step taken is aligned with long-term environmental goals, not just short-term fixes.
Interventions such as thickening sea ice can generate criticisms. Critics often voice concerns that these solutions may detract from more traditional emission reduction strategies. 'Our projects are not about compensating for emissions, the reduction of which remains top priority. They are about finding ways to save the Arctic ice and maintain its function as heatshield to help counter global warming,' says Tom.
'Everything we do is rooted in science and we make all our data public to stimulate fact-based discussions,' Tom asserts.
BlueInvest in action
The Readiness Assistance Programme provided by BlueInvest has helped Arctic Reflections in two significant ways.
Firstly, with insights from their coach, they refined their business model, emphasising government funding and exploring the option of corporate sponsorships. The evolving landscape of climate initiative funding calls for a blended finance strategy and a commitment to staying flexible and adaptable. As an impact-driven startup, funding will align with the mission, not the other way round.
Secondly, it was through their BlueInvest coach’s network that Arctic Reflections found new opportunities across the ocean, in the U.S. and in Canada.
Tom adds: 'Our coach really helped us to tap into a wider range of stakeholders that we couldn’t easily reach out to before.' This networking aspect has been invaluable for fostering partnerships and securing the necessary support for their ambitious goals.
Involving indigenous communities
While challenges remain, the team is determined to help preserve the Arctic, not just for its global environmental importance but also for local indigenous communities.
'Across the world, indigenous communities are known for their environmental stewardship,' Tom says. He adds: 'Working together with them and supporting them in maintaining the sea ice they depend upon is vital – and for this trust is crucial. We uphold common principles of indigenous engagement, such as the need for prior, informed, and free consent.'
As they continue to collaborate with local stakeholders, the organisation recognises the need to amplify indigenous voices in the climate dialogue.
BlueInvest
BlueInvest is the EU's innovation and investment platform for the blue economy, offering business coaching, fundraising support, and networking opportunities for ocean technology companies. Interested individuals can register with the BlueInvest Community to explore programme features and opportunities or contact lu-blueinvest@pwc.lu.