Rune Bjerkestrand

Managing Director

Rune Bjerkestrand is the founder of Piql, the company behind the Arctic World Archive. Here are some key details about him:

Background and Career

Rune Bjerkestrand founded Piql (originally called Cinevation) in 2002.1
He is an engineer by training.1
Bjerkestrand currently serves as the Managing Director of Piql.3

Vision and Accomplishments

His original mission with Piql was to preserve film.1
Bjerkestrand developed the idea for the Arctic World Archive after being inspired by the Global Seed Vault in Svalbard.1
He led Piql in creating a unique long-term archival technology designed to preserve data for centuries.3

Role in the Arctic World Archive

Bjerkestrand was instrumental in establishing the Arctic World Archive in 2017.1
He oversees the operations of the archive, which aims to preserve important digital and cultural artifacts for 500+ years.1 2
At deposit ceremonies, Bjerkestrand often speaks about the importance of preserving world memory for future generations.3

Philosophy

Bjerkestrand emphasizes the significance of long-term thinking and preservation of human knowledge and culture. He has stated:

"The data you have deposited today holds significance for communities around the world. Choosing to preserve these items and ensuring they will never be forgotten is passing on value to future generations."3

Rune Bjerkestrand's work with Piql and the Arctic World Archive represents a unique approach to digital preservation, combining innovative technology with a vision for safeguarding humanity's digital heritage for centuries to come.