2.5.1

The Value of Glaciated Landscapes

Test yourself

The Uses of Glacial and Periglacial Landscapes

Relict and active glacial landscapes are important economically, environmentally and culturally.

Illustrative background for Polar scientific researchIllustrative background for Polar scientific research ?? "content

Polar scientific research

  • Lots of scientific research is carried out in Polar regions.
  • Astronomical and upper atmosphere research is easier in polar areas as the atmosphere is thinner and the air is purer than other parts of the world.
  • Because climate change disproportionately affects Polar regions, they are also good places to assess global warming through scientific research.
Illustrative background for Wilderness recreationIllustrative background for Wilderness recreation ?? "content

Wilderness recreation

  • More remote areas are increasingly becoming popular for cruising (Antarctica), polar trekking and ‘extreme sports’ as their accessibility increases.
    • E.g. skiing in the Alps has become an increasingly popular activity for European families and students.
Illustrative background for Spiritual and religious associationIllustrative background for Spiritual and religious association ?? "content

Spiritual and religious association

  • Several polar and glacial mountain areas have significance in spiritual beliefs or religion.
    • E.g. Buddhists in Tibet with prayer flags.
    • E.g. the Arctic Inuit have a lot of ancient stories and myths associated with the landscape.

The Economic Value of Glaciated Landscapes

Glaciated landscapes have economic value as sites for tourism, forestry, farming and renewable energy.

Illustrative background for Snowdonia (Wales)Illustrative background for Snowdonia (Wales) ?? "content

Snowdonia (Wales)

  • Upland hill sheep farming provides an income for farmers.
  • Coniferous tree plantations on the mountainsides provide an alternative source of income.
  • Tourism is enhanced by the spectacular landscape, all year round, as it is a popular site for hiking and mountain biking.
Illustrative background for IcelandIllustrative background for Iceland ?? "content

Iceland

  • Fishing provides a major source of employment as farming is hindered by the cold.
  • HEP (hydro-electric power) and geothermal power provides electricity for aluminium smelters.
  • Tourism is increasingly important as the landscape is used in films and tv programmes (e.g. Game of Thrones)

Jump to other topics

1Tectonic Processes & Hazards

2Option 2A: Glaciated Landscapes & Change

3Option 2B: Coastal Landscapes & Change

4Globalisation

5Option 4A: Regenerating Places

6Option 4B: Diverse Places

7The Water Cycle & Water Insecurity (A2 only)

8The Carbon Cycle & Energy Security (A2 only)

9Superpowers (A2 only)

10Option 8A: Health & Human Rights (A2 only)

11Option 8B: Migration & Identity (A2 only)

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