Climate change in Svalbard

As a visitor, you have the opportunity to experience the magnificent Arctic nature and culture up close. However, we are acutely aware that our world and its natural beauty are threatened by global warming. Traveling to and within Svalbard contributes to increased CO2 emissions. We recognize our guests and the travel industry's impact on climate change and are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and advocating for climate action. Our planet faces significant challenges, and we each have a part to play in addressing and acting upon them.

Carbon emissions from around the world affect Svalbard's climate, thus impacting its nature, wildlife, and local communities. Global warming leads to warmer ocean, reduction of sea ice and glacier mass, as well as thawing of permafrost. One of the most visible consequences of climate change in Svalbard is the drastic decline in ice areas, which has serious implications for wildlife. Reduction in ice areas diminishes the natural hunting grounds of polar bears, increasing competition for resources. Changes in ice conditions also affect other Arctic species such as walruses, seals, and seabirds, and disruptions in ecosystems can affect both wildlife and humans. Thawing permafrost results in increased greenhouse gas emissions and damages infrastructure like roads, buildings, and airports, while rising sea temperatures contribute to more frequent and intense storms and extreme weather conditions. Climate change thus has significant consequences for ecosystems, animals, humans, and local communities in Svalbard.

Here you can find more facts about climate change.

Is there no hope?

This may sound alarming, and it's common to feel despair and helplessness about climate change. We recognize that climate change will alter Svalbard, but it's incredibly important that we do what we can to reduce our own carbon emissions, engage and spread our knowledge about climate change.

So, what can you do to live more climate-friendly? Here are some simple yet important actions you can take.

Reduce your carbon footprint
In your daily life, you can reduce your own carbon emissions by choosing more environmentally friendly transportation options like walking, biking, or using public transportation. You can also reduce energy consumption at home and on the go by turning off lights and electronic devices when not in use, and by choosing products with lower environmental impact.

Did you know that staying longer at our destination is also a good way to reduce your carbon footprint?
Your carbon footprint per day decreases when you have a longer stay, and you also contribute to local value creation.

Support sustainable initiatives
Choose to support businesses and organizations that are taking active steps to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. This can include offsetting flight emissions, buying local and organic products, choosing products with less packaging, and participating in tours and activities offered by environmentally certified companies. 

Engage and spread knowledge
Share your knowledge about climate change and sustainable solutions with friends, family, and colleagues. Engage in conversations and actions that promote awareness and action on these important issues. Together, we can inspire others to join the fight against climate change.

Participate in local initiatives
Find out if there are local environmental initiatives or organizations here in Longyearbyen or in your hometown that you can contribute to or join. Your local engagement can make a significant difference and help strengthen community efforts to preserve nature and reduce climate change. 

Here you can find more tips on how to make sustainable choices when you are in Longyearbyen.