Living World: Svalbard Case Study

Question 1

Where is Svalbard?

Answer 1

Svalbard is a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean located between mainland Norway and the North Pole

Question 2

Why is Svalbard important?

Answer 2

It is the most inhabited polar region home to ~2700 people. Rich in natural resources wildlife and scientific research

Question 3

Opportunities for development in Svalbard: Mineral extraction

Answer 3

Svalbard has rich coal reserves. Mining is a major employer but environmentally controversial due to emissions and ecosystem impact

Question 4

Opportunities for development in Svalbard: Energy production

Answer 4

Svalbard uses coal-powered energy. However geothermal and carbon capture are being explored as sustainable alternatives

Question 5

Opportunities for development in Svalbard: Fishing

Answer 5

Cold nutrient-rich waters around Svalbard support sustainable fishing. Regulated fishing in the Barents Sea is economically important

Question 6

Opportunities for development in Svalbard: Tourism

Answer 6

~70000 visitors per year. Tourists are attracted by glaciers wildlife (e.g. polar bears) and the Northern Lights. Provides jobs and income

Question 7

Opportunities for development in Svalbard: Research

Answer 7

Scientific research on climate change and glacial environments is important. The Global Seed Vault stores seeds for global biodiversity protection

Question 8

Challenges in Svalbard: Extreme temperatures

Answer 8

Temperatures can drop below -30°C. Travel and outdoor work become dangerous and difficult in extreme cold

Question 9

Challenges in Svalbard: Construction

Answer 9

The ground is permafrost which can melt if disturbed. Buildings and roads must be built on raised foundations to avoid heat transfer

Question 10

Challenges in Svalbard: Accessibility

Answer 10

There is no road link to mainland Norway. Travel is by boat snowmobile or plane. Snow and ice disrupt transport in winter

Question 11

Challenges in Svalbard: Services

Answer 11

Water electricity and sanitation must be carefully managed in harsh conditions. Pipelines must be insulated or run above ground

Question 12

Environmental management: Technology

Answer 12

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline is an example of using technology to reduce environmental impact (e.g. elevated to allow animal migration and prevent permafrost melting)

Question 13

Environmental management: Government intervention

Answer 13

The Norwegian government controls resource extraction and environmental protection through laws nature reserves and sustainable policies

Question 14

Environmental management: International agreements

Answer 14

The Svalbard Treaty allows 40+ countries to mine but not damage the environment. Antarctica Treaty model shows potential for peaceful sustainable cooperation

Question 15

Environmental management: Conservation groups

Answer 15

Groups like WWF and ASOC monitor impacts push for regulation and educate about environmental risks

Question 16

Why is sustainable development in Svalbard important?

Answer 16

Svalbard’s fragile ecosystem and unique wildlife are vulnerable to development. Balancing economic activity with conservation is vital