Vulnerability and adaptation on the icecap’s edge: Farming communities in subarctic south Greenland

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-23-2024

Publication Title

Polar Geography

Keywords

South Greenland, subarctic agriculture, sheep farming, weather variability

Abstract

Variability in climate and weather conditions and socio-economic shifts are dramatically altering the landscapes and livelihoods of peoples of the northern high-latitudes. Such escalating trends have distinctive consequences at the local and regional scale and the ability to adapt to such rapid changes will challenge cultural, social, and economic systems across Arctic regions. Using a cultural landscape approach, this study provides an in-depth qualitative analysis of sheep farming communities in subarctic South Greenland. Our study centers local voices and helps document shifting weather-related and other socio-economic challenges. We interview four farming households, one historian, and one local economic development expert to understand the broader context, the challenges and vulnerabilities, and the persistence of agriculture in this high north region. Our analysis reveals four overarching themes influencing the sustainability of sheep farming: (1) multi-generational farming heritage, (2) reciprocity and community support, (3) shifting weather and climate influences and farming livelihoods, and (4) farm operations and new opportunities. Findings from this study fill a gap in the literature on local and regional impacts of weather and socio-economic shifts in remote regions. Through the inclusion of local Inuit and other voices, we document how geographically dispersed subarctic communities are adapting to broader shifts.

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