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The Compass: The New Arctic: The New Arctic: Resource extraction

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New Arctic

10/02/2021 GMT

The New Arctic: Resource extraction

The New Arctic

BBC World Service - The Compass, The New Arctic, The New Arctic: Resource extraction

As the ice retreats can the scramble for resources beneath the Arctic benefit communities?

Global warming is happening twice as fast in the Arctic. As the ice melts, it poses an existential threat to local communities and indigneous culture, whilst opening up possibilities of economic opportunities. What is the future of mining, of green energy, of tourism in a world that climate change is making accessible for the first time in millennia? And where does power lie? Who will control the rapidly changing icy far north as it thaws?

The US Geological Survey estimated the Arctic may be home to 30% of the planet's undiscovered natural gas reserves and 13% of its undiscovered oil. Russia for example, views its vast Arctic resources as a key driver of its future economy. On the other hand, the melting ice will cause trillions of dollars worth of climate change-related damage, globally, over the coming decades.

But for the communities who live above the Arctic Circle, it’s not a simple debate over preservation versus production - there is a need for jobs and sustainable local economic growth.

(Photo credit: Victpria Ferran.)

The Compass: The New Arctic

Allan Little investigates how the climate crisis is impacting Arctic communities.

Global warming is happening twice as fast in the Arctic than in any other place on earth. As the ice melts, economic opportunities are increasing - from shipping lanes, to resource extraction and tourism - prompting security risks and geopolitical tensions. Allan Little investigates how the climate crisis and increased economic activity is impacting the communities who call this extreme environment their home  - which,  contrary to popular belief, is far from a pristine, empty white desert.

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