Greenland and the Arctic area are more severely affected by climate changes than many other areas in the world. Small changes have a high impact: Temperatures are rising, the weather is becoming more unstable and there is more precipitation. Sea ice is melting, the ice cap is decreasing and the sea level rising. Consequently, sea currents can change which would have a noticeable effect on the continental climate. In the long term, flora and fauna will most probably change – new species will thrive while others will disappear. There are good chances of maintaining diversity.
There is a considerable need to increase focus on sustainability and work intensely to reduce the environmental impact – locally and globally. A development potential for energy-intensive industries based on sustainable energy, primarily hydro power, is emerging. However, the municipal council also wishes to expand the sustainable energy supply from other sources, e.g. solar and wind power.
Potential environmental impacts caused by extractive activities are to be thoroughly investigated and addressed as part of the municipal environmental planning. The same goes for the consequences derived by the general town and industry development and, not least, potential activities in the open country. The open country is a new administrative sphere for the municipalities. New common guidelines are to ensure coherent planning and administration of the open country in all of Kommune Qeqertalik. This way, we can ensure that our unique nature and natural resources are not harmed, but at the same time make our nature more accessible for the local population and for tourists, but also for sealers, whalers and hunters.
Goals
- Climate changes are to be addressed by including sustainability, climate adaptation measures and long-term coherent solutions. Upgrading sustainable measures and businesses is to contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.
- Plans for the open country are to minimise the environmental impact and at the same time improve the public accessibility.
- The development of towns and settlements is to be carried out based on sustainability, environmental and climate considerations.
- Business development, including tourism, sealing, whaling and hunting, is to be carried out in consideration of the climate, environment and sustainability, thereby branding the municipality.
- Environmental, sustainable and low-energy building and rehabilitation are to be promoted. The town plan is to ensure possibilities for experimental and innovative construction where new techniques and materials are used, based on Arctic conditions and building traditions.
- Opportunities to expand sustainable energy production with, e.g., wind or solar energy are to be investigated further.
