New rules for Svalbard protect nature and limit tourists

Since January 1 of this year, stricter regulations on tourist traffic have been in effect on the Norwegian Svalbard archipelago in the Arctic. The authorities in Oslo aim to reduce the burden on the local environment in light of the growing interest in this unique region and accelerating climate changes.

The new regulations introduce, among other things, a ban on approaching polar bears closer than 328 yards, and from March to the end of June, when their activity increases, the required distance is 547 yards. A ban on the use of drones near bird nests has also been implemented during the breeding season from April to the end of August, and in protected areas, this prohibition is in effect all year round. Landing on the islands is only permitted in 43 marked locations on the maps.

Ships visiting protected areas in the eastern and western parts of the archipelago cannot carry more than 200 passengers. Breaking and crushing the ice cover will be penalized, as the right to undertake such actions is reserved solely for the Coast Guard and units providing access to the ports in Longyearbyen and Barentsburg.

Organized groups of tourists must obtain a permit for camping, even if they plan to stay for just one night, while individual tourists need a permit if they intend to remain in one place for more than a week.

The Norwegian government explains that the restrictions respond to the steadily increasing tourist traffic on the archipelago. The Minister of Climate and Environment, Tore O. Sandvik, emphasized that the rate of climate change in Svalbard is up to seven times faster than the global average. "We have seen growing pressure from tourism that impacts nature, cultural heritage, and wildlife. At the same time, climate change is unfolding here and now. To preserve Svalbard's wilderness, we are updating the regulatory framework to address these challenges," said the Norwegian minister.