Revision:Challenges of Permafrost Environments

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Why do Permafrost Environments Challenge Human Life?

• The Arctic climate – Long, Cold Winters. 56 Days of continued darkness & short cool summers.

• Temperatures with wind chill can reach -78˚C.

• There is fragile tundra on top of the permafrost, which thaws in the summer.

• In Alaska there are conflicts between conservation and economic growth.

Environmental Change in Alaska, USA

   Ecosystems –

• Reduction in forest, plant and animal diversity.

• Clearance of forests for grassland + pasture.

• Loss of Wetlands.

• Disruption of food resources.

• Landslides + Erosion reduce habitat.

• Oil exploration disturbs endangered species.

• Increased risk of fire.

   Climate –

• Increased precipitation.

• Rapid snowmelt, resulting in stream erosion.

• Reduction in ice cover – improves water transport.

• Permafrost acts as foundations for most Alaskan homes.

The Oil Problem in Alaska, USA

The fundamental problem with oil in Alaska is the conflicts between developers & environmentalists.

- The developers argue –

 Only 8% would be developed – 17.5 Acres would remain closed to any future development.

 New technology reduces impact on environment.

 735,000 new jobs to be created.

 Decreased tourism to the area.

 Decrease US’s dependence on foreign producers.

 Alaska’s finance services would benefit from the revenue created.

- The environmentalists argue –

 Oil pollution + spilling are very likely to happen.

 Prudhoe Bay – 293 spills in 1999 – 44,500 gallons.

 Only a 20 year project, due to consumption levels.

 Only a small proportion of the income earned would benefit Alaska.

 Increased oil consumption will cause global warming.

 Coal & Nuclear would be easier to decrease dependence on foreign energy