UPSC Mains 2015 GS Paper 1 Q20: model answer

The US Geological Survey (2008) estimated that the Arctic holds about 13% of the world's undiscovered oil and 30% of its undiscovered gas. Melting sea ice is making these resources accessible.

Economic significance

• Energy security for Russia, Norway, the USA, Canada and importers like India and China.
• New shipping routes: the Northern Sea Route shortens Europe–Asia voyages, reducing transport costs.
• Jobs and investment in remote northern regions.
• Geopolitics: competition among Arctic states; Russia's Yamal LNG project; India's ONGC Videsh holds a stake in Russia's Vankor field.
• Lower dependence on the Middle East for importers.
• Rising importance of Arctic ports such as Murmansk, and new revenue for Arctic states.

Environmental consequences

• Oil spills: cleaning oil in ice and darkness is almost impossible; the 1989 Exxon Valdez disaster in Alaska showed long-term damage.
• Fragile ecosystems: slow-growing Arctic life, polar bears, seals, whales and fish would be hurt.
• Black carbon from ships and flaring darkens ice, speeding melting.
• Climate feedback: burning more fossil fuels accelerates warming, which melts more ice.
• Indigenous peoples: threats to Inuit and Saami livelihoods.
• Permafrost damage from infrastructure, releasing methane.

Conclusion

Arctic oil offers short-term gain at a long-term planetary cost. Strict regulation through the Arctic Council, where India is an observer since 2013, and a faster shift to clean energy are needed.