Durham -- British scientists say they've created the first Arctic map depicting disputed areas nations might claim in the race to develop new sources of oil and gas.

The Durham University researchers said the need to map the region illustrates the potential for conflict and the necessity of clear policy on Arctic resource issues.

"The map is the most precise depiction yet of the limits and the future dividing lines that could be drawn across the Arctic region," said Martin Pratt, director of the university's International Boundaries Research Unit.

"It's a cartographic means of showing, and an attempt to collate information and predict the way in which the Arctic region may eventually be divided up.

The results have huge implications for policy-making as the rush to carve up the polar region continues."

The map is designed to highlight areas of land and sea where clashes of interest are likely. Current disputes involve Canada, Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Russia and the United States.

The map is available at http://www.dur.ac.uk/ibru/resources/arctic

Copyright 2008 by United Press International.