Cold Environments

Describe the physical characteristics of a cold environment (polar and tundra).
Analyze the interdependence of climate, permafrost, soils, plants, animals, and people in cold environments.
Explain how plants and animals adapt to physical conditions in cold environments.
Discuss issues related to biodiversity in cold environments.
Evaluate development opportunities in cold environments using a case study (e.g., mineral extraction, energy, fishing, tourism).
Assess the challenges of developing cold environments, such as extreme temperature, inaccessibility, and infrastructure provision.
Evaluate the value of cold environments as wilderness areas and the need for protection.
Assess strategies to balance economic development and conservation, including the use of technology, government roles, and international agreements.

What you need to know