The Yamal Peninsula Flashcards
What is the area of Northwest Siberia, and how does it compare to France in size?
Northwest Siberia has an area of 47,000 km2, which is approximately 50% larger than France.
How deep is the permafrost in Northwest Siberia, and how much carbon does it store compared to the Earth’s atmosphere?
The permafrost in Northwest Siberia is 200 meters deep, storing twice the carbon present in the Earth’s atmosphere.
How has the population of Northwest Siberia changed over the years?
The population of Northwest Siberia has grown from 60,000 in 1960 to 530,000 in 2019.
What percentage of the population engages in traditional reindeer herding?
Approximately 40% of the Nenets population still engages in traditional reindeer herding.
What is the significance of the Bovanenkovo gas field, and how did its exploitation lead to conflict?
The Bovanenkovo gas field is significant as it accounts for 90% of Russia’s gas production. Its exploitation in the 1980s resulted in conflict with the Nenets due to high costs associated with the project.
What is the “Yamal Megaproject,” and what infrastructure developments does it entail?
The “Yamal Megaproject” initiated by Gazprom includes a 527km railway line, several bridges, kindergartens, hospitals, fish and venison processing factories, and a gas pipeline.
What environmental phenomenon occurred in Northwest Siberia in July 2014, and what is believed to be the cause?
Sinkholes, 30m deep and 20m wide, were found in Northwest Siberia in July 2014. These are believed to be caused by the release of methane as permafrost thaws.
What action did Russian courts take in 2019 regarding an indigenous rights group in Northwest Siberia?
In 2019, Russian courts ordered the closure of an indigenous rights group in Northwest Siberia, accusing the group, mainly consisting of Nenets, of trying to obstruct economic development.
