China's arctic pioneers begin work

A scientific researcher breaks ice at a Chinese research station in the Arctic Ocean, Aug 29, 2012. China's fifth Arctic expedition team began their work on Wednesday, carried by icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, which started its trip in July. The 120-member team includes one scientist from Taiwan and four from France, Denmark and Iceland. Their work will include a survey on the impact of changes in the Arctic Ocean's environment on China's climate, the arctic eco-system's current conditions and its interaction with global changes. [Photo/Xinhua]