Arctic Case Study Research

Arctic Case Study Research

Inuit Tribes

Inuit tribes originate from the Arctic and live in arctic countries such as Canada and the USA (Alaska). Traditional Inuit way of life was influenced by the harsh climate and stark landscapes of the Arctic tundra. Inuit communities are found in the Arctic, in the Northwest Territories, Labrador and Quebec in Canada, above tree line in Alaska (where people are called the Inupiat and Yupik), and in Russia (where people are called the Yupik people).Inuit life may have changed over the past century, but a lot of their traditions such as: dancing, storytelling and mythology still are evident in their pre4sent day life. Their choice of clothing is typically made from thick animal skin and fur for warmth. Boots and coats are also made out of fur and animal skin. The remains of animals are also used for their transport needs as sledges are made from animal bones and are pulled over ice by strong, thick furred dogs such as huskies. Boats such as the kayak and umiaq are used for transportation in waters and the Arctic Ocean.

How Will Climate Change affect the Inuit People?

The Inuit tribe depend on hunting, fishing and gathering to support themselves and the local economy in their communities. Local hunting practices have already changed and new technologies are increasingly relied upon. Inuit elders, who traditionally used their skills to predict the weather, have observed changing cloud and wind patterns (see Voices from the Land for direct quotes from elders on the changes they have witnessed). Their weather and climate-related knowledge does not fit with today’s weather conditions and patterns. Unpredictable weather and climate has increased the risk of travelling on the land. This has made it very difficult for elders to pass along their weather prediction skills to younger generations. Some traditional travel routes are now unreachable, preventing the use of traditional camp sites. According to many elders and community members, decreasing water levels make travelling by boat more difficult. The early melt of lakes, rivers and sea ice make travel routes unsafe in the spring, and thawing permafrost makes travel by ATV in the summertime more difficult.