SVALBARD

• What is Svalbard known for in Europe?

  Svalbard is one of Europe's largest and most pristine wildernesses.
• Why is it important to protect the flora and fauna of Svalbard?

  Because the flora and fauna are fragile and need protection.
• What was the purpose of the Svalbard Treaty introduced in 1920?

  To ensure Norway protects Svalbard's environment and ban military activity.
• What does the Svalbard Environmental Protection Act aim to achieve?

  To preserve a virtually untouched environment in Svalbard.
• What restrictions does the environmental protection legislation impose on traffic in Svalbard?

  Motorised vehicles on bare ground or snow are prohibited.
• Why is the use of snowmobiles restricted in Svalbard?

  To protect the land from environmental degradation.
• When is all traffic prohibited in bird sanctuaries in Svalbard?

  Between 15th May and 15th August.
• What percentage of Svalbard's land area is protected by law?

  65% of Svalbard's land area is protected by law.
• How many national parks are included in the protected areas of Svalbard?

  Seven national parks.
• What must tour operators do before conducting tours in Svalbard?

  Register their tours in advance with the Governor of Svalbard.
• What is the environmental fee that tourists must pay in Svalbard?

  150 Norwegian Krona.
• What is prohibited regarding polar bears in Svalbard?

  It is prohibited to lure, pursue, or disturb polar bears.
• What must people carry when leaving settlements in Svalbard?

  A suitable gun and experience in using it.
• Why is camping prohibited on vegetated areas in Svalbard?

  To protect the vulnerable arctic flora.
• What are the consequences of breaking rules for tourists and tour operators in Svalbard?

  Heavy fines from the Norwegian government.
• What was created in 1977 to protect fish populations around Svalbard?

  A fisheries protection zone.
• What regulations exist within the fisheries protection zone?

  Rules on minimum net sizes and fishing quotas.
• Who actively checks that fishing regulations are met in Svalbard?

  The Norwegian Coast Guard.
• What are the main threats to biodiversity in marine protected areas?

  • Cruise ship pollution and noise pollution
  • Overfishing
• What are the results of increased tourism in marine protected areas?

  • Large number of visitors
  • Increased level of pollution
  • Trampling of vegetation
  • Disturbing natural order
  • More pollution incidents
• What management strategies can mitigate threats to biodiversity?

  • Visitors must pay environmental fees
  • Limits on the number of visitors
  • Control the impact of shipping
  • Environmental education
  • Support for sustainable tourism
• How do minimum net sizes and fishing quotas help protect fish populations?

  • Minimum net sizes prevent overfishing
  • Fishing quotas protect baby fish
• What is the role of environmental education in managing biodiversity threats?

  To ensure tourists are well-educated about their impact.
• What is the impact of overfishing on biodiversity?

  It can lead to a decline in fish populations and disrupt ecosystems.
• How does cruise ship pollution affect marine protected areas?

  It contributes to increased pollution and disrupts marine ecosystems.
• What is a consequence of trampling vegetation in marine protected areas?

  It leads to damage of the natural habitat.
• Why is it important to control the impact of shipping in marine protected areas?

  To minimize pollution and protect marine biodiversity.
• How can businesses support sustainable tourism in marine protected areas?

  By adopting practices that minimize environmental impact.
• What is the significance of the term "baby fish" in fishing management?

  It refers to young fish populations that need protection.
• Why can some management strategies not be fully implemented?

  Due to various challenges and limitations in enforcement.
• How does the growing middle class affect biodiversity in marine protected areas?

  It increases demand for tourism and resources, potentially harming biodiversity.
• How many species of fish are mentioned in the study material?

  150 species of fish.
• What is the role of coal mining in Svalbard's economy?

  It provides jobs for around 300 people.
• How does permafrost affect land use in Svalbard?

  It limits land use due to frozen conditions.
• What is the impact of renewable energy on Svalbard's economy?

  It can boost the economy by providing sustainable energy sources.
• What is the significance of the term "biodiversity" in the context of marine protected areas?

  Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in marine ecosystems.
• How does overfishing threaten biodiversity?

  It reduces fish populations and disrupts the balance of marine ecosystems.
• What are the potential consequences of increased tourism in marine protected areas?

  It can lead to pollution, habitat destruction, and disturbance of wildlife.
• What is the role of environmental fees in managing tourism in Svalbard?

  They help fund initiatives that preserve Svalbard's unique wilderness.
• Why is it important for tourists to be well-educated about their impact?

  To minimize their negative effects on the environment.