Since its establishment in January 2025, the European Polar Coordination Office (EPCO) functions as a central contact point for European polar research community, policymakers and decision-makers, including the European Commission. The office builds on the results of the two successful EU PolarNet projects. EPCO continues to coordinate two key platforms developed by the EU PolarNet, the EU Polar Cluster and the Catalyst Platform, which enhance collaboration, communication, and synergy across the European Polar Research Community and various actors.

The EU Polar Cluster brings together leading European polar research initiatives to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and amplify impact in Arctic and Antarctic science.

The Catalyst Platform is a central hub for European polar research, designed to enhance coordination, foster collaboration, and spark new initiatives through continuous information exchange and interactive discussions.

As a dynamic network hub, EPCO fosters collaboration, promotes knowledge exchange, and strengthens integration within the European polar research community. It serves as a key liaison, delivering cutting-edge scientific insights to policymakers and connecting them with relevant research when needed. Additionally, EPCO engages the public through events that highlight the significance of polar research and promote its broader dissemination.

EPCO in a nutshell

EPCO will undertake a variety of initiatives to support European polar science and policy. Examples of key actions include:

• Connect the European polar research community with policymakers to inform decision-making and research priorities
• Coordinate the EU Polar Cluster
• Serve as a connective hub for European polar observation actors & policymakers
• Maintain the Catalyst Platform
• Amplify stakeholder engagement

EPCO was officially announced by the EU Commission during the European Polar Science Week in September 2024. Read more here.