Advancing Arctic Sustainability and Resilience: My Volunteer Journey at UiT in Narvik

Hello everyone! I am Hanife, an architect from Turkey.

I arrived in Narvik the last of August to volunteer at UiT The Arctic University of Norway, motivated by a passion for sustainable construction and the opportunity to contribute to an innovative project tackling the unique challenges of the Arctic climate. Ar2CorD project, supported by Interreg and involving expert partners from Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Finland, and Greenland, aims to develop sustainable construction practices tailored to the region’s harsh conditions, specifically focusing on improving the frost resistance of concrete and reducing its carbon footprint.

In my role, I started to design a long-term concrete test facility, drawing inspiration from a range of innovative designs. My first step was analyzing water levels to determine the ideal height for concrete sample structures, which allows for a stable and effective layout. I’m also exploring sustainable energy solutions, like implementing solar panels, which could provide green energy even in the challenging Arctic environment—an exciting possibility!

Additionally, I hope to increase the visibility and public engagement around our monitoring station. By enhancing the site’s aesthetic and accessibility, I aim to make it a more appealing destination for tourists, all while showcasing our commitment to sustainability.

Volunteering here is a unique and rewarding experience. Narvik has a peaceful, close-knit community that warmly welcomes newcomers, and the city’s commitment to sustainability is truly inspiring. UiT’s Narvik campus is a beautiful place to work, with wide-open windows offering breathtaking views of Ofotfjorden and Narvik Harbour. This project provides a valuable opportunity to support Arctic communities by advancing durable, eco-friendly construction practices, and it’s exciting to be part of this meaningful work.

 I look forward to the coming months as we make strides in developing solutions that can benefit the entire region.

– Hanife Ekinci, Interreg Project Partner at UiT The Arctic University of Norway for the Interreg Project “Ar2CorD”, under the programme Interreg Northern Periphery and Arctic

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