The Arctic is facing significant challenges due to rapid climate change, with temperatures rising at a much faster rate than the global average. This has led to increased accessibility of land in the region, resulting in a surge in industrial and urban development. However, a comprehensive assessment of human activity in the Arctic has been lacking until now. An international research team led by Gabriela Schaepman-Strub from the University of Zurich has used satellite data of nighttime artificial light to quantify human activity across the Arctic from 1992 to 2013. They found that more than 5% of the Arctic is affected by human activity, with an annual increase of 4.8%.
The researchers identified hotspots of human activity in the European Arctic and the oil and gas extraction regions of Alaska, USA, and Russia, with up to one-third of the land area illuminated at night. However, the Canadian Arctic was largely dark at night, indicating lower levels of human activity. It was also found that only 15% of the lit area contained human settlements, with the majority of artificial light coming from industrial activities. This light pollution is increasing in both area and intensity every year, highlighting the impact of industrial development on the Arctic environment.
The data provided by this study is essential for future research on the impact of industrial development on Arctic ecosystems. The researchers warn that even something as seemingly minor as repeated trampling by humans can have long-term environmental effects in the fragile permafrost landscape and tundra ecosystem. Industrial activities and light pollution can have negative impacts on Arctic biodiversity, affecting species such as reindeer and delaying critical growth processes in plants with limited growing seasons.
As the Arctic faces rapid climate change, the need for local communities to adapt quickly is crucial. Industrial development in the region may further exacerbate the effects of climate change, leading to critical levels of anthropogenic disturbance by 2050 if current growth rates are maintained. Understanding and documenting industrial activity in the Arctic is key for sustainable development, as it can help inform decision-making by Indigenous Peoples, governments, and stakeholders to align with the Sustainable Development Goals in the region.
In conclusion, the study sheds light on the extent and impact of human activity in the Arctic, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable development practices in the region. The researchers stress the importance of monitoring and planning industrial development in the Arctic to mitigate negative impacts on the environment and society. By addressing these issues, stakeholders can work towards ensuring a sustainable future for the Arctic and its fragile ecosystems.