The Arctic Flashcards
How does the Arctic’s oil and gas reserves impact global energy markets?
- Significant untapped reserves could affect global supply and prices
- Exploration and extraction challenges due to harsh conditions
What are the main natural resources found in the Arctic?
- Oil and gas
- Minerals (e.g., nickel, copper, diamond)
- Fish
- Marine mammals
What are the environmental risks of Arctic resource extraction?
- Oil spills could damage fragile ecosystems
- Disturbance to wildlife habitats
- Permafrost melting from infrastructure development
What is the significance of the Arctic for global fishing industries?
Home to major commercial fish stocks, providing a significant portion of the world’s fish supply
How do mining activities in the Arctic affect local communities?
- Can bring economic opportunities but also social challenges
- Environmental concerns from mining operations
What challenges do companies face when extracting Arctic resources?
-Extreme weather conditions
- Ice-covered terrain
- Remote locations requiring special logistics
How does climate change impact Arctic natural resource exploitation?
Melting ice opens new areas for exploration but raises environmental and sovereignty issues
What role do Indigenous peoples play in the Arctic economy?
- Participate in traditional economic activities like fishing and hunting
- Involved in modern industries through land rights and agreements
What are the geopolitical implications of Arctic resource exploration?
-Territorial disputes over resource-rich areas- Increased military presence
- Diplomatic tensions among Arctic states
How is sustainable development being pursued in the Arctic?
- Initiatives to minimize environmental impact
- Investment in renewable energy sources
- Indigenous community involvement
What international agreements regulate Arctic resource exploitation?
- United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
- Arctic Council guidelines
How does the Arctic’s tourism industry impact the economy and environment?
-Provides economic benefits but risks environmental damage from increased human activity
What renewable energy resources are found in the Arctic?
- Wind and hydroelectric power potential
- Geothermal energy in some areas
How are Arctic resources critical to the global technology industry?
Rare earth minerals essential for electronics and renewable energy technologies
What is the potential impact of Arctic drilling on global oil prices?
- Could increase supply, potentially lowering prices
- Environmental and operational risks may increase costs
How do shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route affect Arctic economies?
Reduce transport times between Asia and Europe, boosting regional trade and economic activity
What are the main environmental concerns associated with Arctic fisheries?
- Overfishing threatening fish populations
- Impact on marine ecosystems
How do geopolitical interests affect Arctic resource management?
-Competition for resources can lead to conflicts
- Collaborative management efforts through international forums
What technologies are being developed for Arctic resource extraction?
- Ice-resistant drilling platforms
- Remote-operated vehicles for under-ice exploration
How does global demand for resources drive Arctic exploration?
Increasing demand for oil, gas, and minerals motivates exploration despite environmental concerns
What is the impact of Arctic resource development on local wildlife?
- Habitat disruption
- Potential for oil spills and pollution affecting marine life
How are Arctic countries collaborating on resource exploitation?
- Sharing technology and best practices
- Joint ventures in exploration and development projects