John Pye Auctions Backs Arctic “Citizen Science” Expedition to Study Climate Change

Nottingham-based national auction house, John Pye Auctions, is proud to support an important environmental research mission being undertaken by The Arctic Research Group (ARG) this summer in Tempelfjorden, Svalbard.

The ARG is a UK-registered charity and non-profit organisation made up of volunteers who carry out scientific expeditions in the High Arctic. In collaboration with the University of Svalbard, the team will travel to remote, uninhabited areas accessible only by sea during the short summer season - before the fjords begin to freeze.

This year’s expedition will focus on “citizen science” - research conducted by dedicated volunteers rather than professional scientists. Participants will gather valuable environmental data while gaining hands-on experience with some of the most urgent global challenges we face today.

Key areas of research include:

• Monitoring glacier melt and climate-related changes

• Surveying Arctic flora and fauna

• Collecting data from ice pits

• Tracking marine pollution and beach debris

The findings will build on more than four decades of previous research, contributing to the global understanding of climate change and supporting efforts to protect fragile ecosystems.

Adam Pye, Managing Director at John Pye Auctions, said: “We’re committed to doing our part in the fight against climate change, and we’re proud to support the Arctic Research Group in their mission. Their work is not only scientifically valuable but also inspires a new generation of citizen scientists to engage with sustainability in a meaningful way.”

John Pye’s donation will help fund essential kit for this and future expeditions - including a new expedition tent, six survival/immersion suits and scientific monitoring equipment.

Founded in 1988 by Ian Frearson, the Arctic Research Group has completed ten successful expeditions of its own, with members also taking part in more than 20 other research missions, including two international EU-funded projects.

Dr Stephen Staley, Group Leader of the ARG, added: “We’re incredibly grateful for the support from John Pye. Their backing gives us greater confidence in planning for the future and ensures our team is properly equipped to continue this vital work.”

The 2025 expedition team includes ten volunteers of varying ages and backgrounds - four of whom will be experiencing Arctic fieldwork for the first time. The advance team is scheduled to arrive in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, on 7th July, to begin preparations for the main party’s arrival later that month.

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