Arctic on the edge
Explain the levels of biodiversity found in the Arctic
• Extremely cold because of latitude
• Only a few animals survive the climate – endemic species
• Lack of sunlight and plants means there is a low amount of energy in the food web. This energy can’t support many species.
• Low precipitation in the polar desert.
• Geographical isolation and hostile climate.
• Altitude
• Lack of decomposition as the cold weather is unsuitable for microorganisms. Therefore, there are low nutrient levels in the soil.
Study Figure 9. Evaluate the contribution these options could make to a sustainable future in the Arctic.
-OR-
Examine the possible actions shown in Figure 9
• Intro: Explain what a sustainable option is and what determines its level of sustainability.
Assess the role of different players in determining the level of biodiversity in the future of the Arctic
• Locals ⇒Same – to continue hunting
• Oil companies ⇒Reduced – to exploit resources
• Arctic Council ⇒Reduced – to exploit resources
• UN ⇒Same – to maintain biodiversity
• NGOs ⇒Increased/Same
Arctic on the edge
Explain the levels of biodiversity found in the Arctic
• Extremely cold because of latitude
• Only a few animals survive the climate – endemic species
• Lack of sunlight and plants means there is a low amount of energy in the food web. This energy can’t support many species.
• Low precipitation in the polar desert.
• Geographical isolation and hostile climate.
• Altitude
• Lack of decomposition as the cold weather is unsuitable for microorganisms. Therefore, there are low nutrient levels in the soil.
Study Figure 9. Evaluate the contribution these options could make to a sustainable future in the Arctic.
-OR-
Examine the possible actions shown in Figure 9
• Intro: Explain what a sustainable option is and what determines its level of sustainability.
Assess the role of different players in determining the level of biodiversity in the future...