Topic Summaries

Case study – development in cold environments

IGCSE > Geography > CIE > IGCSE Geography Topic Summaries > Cold environment ecosystems > Case study – development in cold environments
Previous Module
Next Module

Weather hazards and atmospheric circulation

Tropical storm hazards

Responding to tropical storms

Hot desert ecosystems

Cold environment ecosystems

Glacial landscapes

Glacial landform processes

Water supply

Energy supply

Svalbard, Norway
Development opportunities
  • Mineral extraction: mining provides over 300 jobs, boosting the local economy.
  • Energy: Svalbard aims to use geothermal energy due to being near constructive plate boundaries.
  • Fishing: the surrounding ocean is home to over 150 species of fish, supporting the fishing industry and providing food for locals.
  • Tourism: activities like glacier tours and wildlife spotting attract tourists, creating jobs and supporting the economy.
Challenges for development
  • Extreme temperatures: winter temperatures drop below –30°C, making daily life difficult. 
  • Inaccessibility: Svalbard is remote, with only one airport in Longyearbyen. Flights come from Norway and Russia, limiting access. 
  • Infrastructure: buildings are specially designed with insulation to retain heat, and pipes are insulated to prevent freezing and damage.

Unlock Case study – development in cold environments

Subscribe to SnapRevise+ to get immediate access to the rest of this resource.

Premium accounts get immediate access to this resource.

Previous Module
Next Module