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How is Svalbard being damaged?
Abnormally high average temperatures have led to damage to several buildings on Svalbard, and the Government has been issued its first climate bill. The Permafrost under the building is melting and the foundation has to be re-made, writes Klassekampen. …
What are the main causes of environmental damage to Svalbard?
The settlements are the main local sources of pollution. The pollution comprises emissions to air, water and ground, and the activities that cause most of the pollution are coal fired power stations, diesel generators and transportation (airplane, helicopter, boat, cars and snow mobile).
How is Svalbard at risk from economic development?
Development challenges in Svalbard Winter temperatures can drop below -30°C in Svalbard. In the winter the sea freezes and roads become very dangerous. Buildings and Infrastructure. Permafrost in Svalbard creates considerable challenges for building and constructing infrastructure.
Is there really a seed vault?
Deep inside a mountain on a remote island in the Svalbard archipelago, halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole, lies the Global Seed Vault. It is a long-term seed storage facility, built to stand the test of time — and the challenge of natural or man-made disasters.
Who owns the world seed vault?
of Norway
The Seed Vault is owned and administered by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food on behalf of the Kingdom of Norway and is established as a service to the world community.
What challenges does Svalbard face?
Svalbard (dark green) in respect to Norway (light green). However, they face challenges to developmentfrom: Extreme cold temperatures ● Inaccessibility to areas ● Provision of buildings and infrastructure. Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s capital.
Why should Svalbard be protected?
The purpose of this Act is to preserve a virtually untouched environment in Svalbard with respect to continuous areas of wilderness, landscape, flora, fauna and cultural heritage. Within this framework, the Act allows for environmentally sound settlement, research and commercial activities.
Can I live in Svalbard?
Everybody may live and work in Svalbard indefinitely regardless of country of citizenship. The Svalbard Treaty grants treaty nationals equal right of abode as Norwegian nationals. Non-treaty nationals may live and work indefinitely visa-free as well.
What are the threats involved in developing cold environments?
Developing infrastructure for mineral extraction, fossil fuels or tourism is very difficult in cold environments. The following challenges can cause problems for development: Relief – mountainous areas and rugged terrain make cold environments very inaccessible for vehicles delivering materials for construction.
Is the oreo vault real?
The cookie brand partnered with agencies 360i and The Community to unveil the Global Oreo Vault, a real asteroid-proof facility built to protect the Oreo recipe. The vault was inspired by other “doomsday” seed vaults that protect the seeds of the world in case of global catastrophe.