Svalbard implements eco-friendly policies to conserve arctic region’s fragile environment

Oslo (The Uttam Hindu): Norway has introduced stricter environmental regulations in Svalbard to safeguard the Arctic archipelago's fragile ecosystem, wildlife and cultural heritage amid rising tourism and climate change. Svalbard located between mainland Norway and the North Pole is known for its dramatic glaciers polar bears and seabird colonies but its ecosystem faces growing threats from warmer temperatures and human activity. Acting Minister of Climate and Environment Tore Sandvik emphasized the need to address these challenges noting the increasing pressure from tourism. New measures include stricter distance requirements for visitors near polar bears with a mandatory 300-meter distance year-round extending to 500 meters during the animals’ most sensitive period from March to June.

Additional regulations include a ban on drone use near bird cliffs during breeding season and tight controls on landings in protected areas. Passenger ships will be restricted to no more than 200 passengers in these areas and the use of drones and underwater vehicles will be prohibited. Motorized traffic will also face limitations including a permanent ban on driving over sea ice in certain fjords after March 1 while eco-friendly bicycles will be allowed in select national parks. These changes come as Svalbard warms at a rate five to seven times faster than the global average with tourism expanding into previously untouched regions. The new regulations aim to protect the unique Arctic environment ensuring its preservation for future generations.