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Capelin (Mallotus villosus) is an important species in the ecosystem of the Barents Sea and pollutants in capelin would rapidly be transferred upwards in the food chain. Capelin contain low levels…

Pollutants in the Arctic are mainly transported from southerly latitudes by winds, ocean currents and rivers. Many of the substances are transferred through nutrition, from the lower levels on the food chain, such as polar cod and capelin, to the higher trophic levels. Thus, species at the top of the marine food chain, such as polar bears and glaucous gulls, accumulate high concentrations of pollutants. Many of the substances also bind to fat, and arctic species typically build up fat reserves to protect them from the cold and give them a source of energy when food is scarce. When they consume this fat, the pollutants are released into their blood stream, perhaps having damaging effects even though the air and the water are cleaner in the Arctic than further south.

Fishing mortality gives an estimate of how much of the population is caught. caught. It is caught large quantities of fish in the Barents Sea, and today…

The number of annual overnight stays in public accommodation in Longyearbyen shows the attraction of Svalbard as a travel destination and gives an indication of what impact the natural and cultural environment…

Traffic in Svalbard may have a negative impact on birds, mammal, vegetation and cultural sites and monuments. Individual travellers must notify the Governor of Svalbard’ office prior to trips…

Travelling by helicopter and aircraft is an important part of getting about in Svalbard. Besides the air routes from the mainland to Longyearbyen and between the various settlements, most travel by…

Marine and coastal tourism in Svalbard has historically had a substantial increase, and the development since 1996 is well documented. The activities may have negative effects on the environment…

Snowmobiles are important means of transport in Svalbard, where they are used for recreation, tourism, work, research and education. There is particularly much snowmobile traffic in March and April, and the traffic has increased…

Increased traffic in Svalbard, both motorised and non-motorised, may have negative impacts on the soil, plant cover, animal life and cultural heritage sites. Motorised traffic also disturbs other people who wish to experience solitude and peace and quiet. Monitoring the scale of the ongoing traffic provides useful information for the management authorities.

Snow cover is an indicator of climate change, since it is controlled by both temperature and precipitation. Snow cover is a complex unit to monitor, but at the same time very important…