The Arctic experienced its second warmest year on record in 2017, with above average ocean temperatures, loss of sea ice and a range of human, ocean and ecosystem effects, according to a report by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The Arctic Report Card, which is now in its 12th year, brings together the work of 85 scientists from 12 nations. The report shows that Arctic temperatures are increasing at double the rate of the global temperature increase. The rate of sea ice decline and warming temperatures are higher than at any other time in the last 1,500 years, and likely longer than that.