Urbanization and biodiversity loss in the Arctic: Why community sensitization matters

Biodiversity isn’t just about large animals. Tiny organisms like arthropods (insects and spiders) and fungi play vital roles in nutrient cycling, pollination, and soil health, key ecological functions that keep the Arctic environment resilient. My PhD research focuses on integrating remote sensing technology with environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring to track these often-overlooked species and better understand how urbanization impacts Arctic biodiversity.

What are eDNA and remote sensing?

Environmental DNA (eDNA) refers to the tiny traces of genetic material that all living things leave behind, like skin cells or waste in soil or water. By collecting and analyzing these samples, scientists can tell which species live in an area without needing to see or catch them directly. It’s like finding invisible clues that reveal who’s around.

Remote sensing uses satellites or drones to take pictures and gather information about the Earth from above. This technology helps scientists observe large, sometimes hard-to-reach areas to see how landscapes and habitats are changing over time.

By combining these two methods, we can get a detailed and wide-reaching view of Arctic biodiversity, including small but important species that often go unnoticed.

Understanding hidden biodiversity loss

Urban growth fragments natural habitats and interrupts wildlife migration routes. For example, caribou herds are affected by new roads and settlements, while polar bears face habitat loss from melting sea ice and coastal development. These changes don’t just reduce the number of animals; they weaken entire ecosystems by disrupting the roles species play.

Arthropods and fungi, though less visible, are essential. They break down organic matter, support plant growth, and form the foundation of Arctic food webs. Traditional monitoring methods rarely capture their diversity and abundance, but eDNA sampling allows us to detect their presence from tiny traces left in soil or water. Combined with satellite remote sensing, this approach provides a powerful way to track changes over large areas.

Bringing science and community together

Indigenous communities have long been the stewards of Arctic ecosystems, using traditional knowledge to understand environmental changes. By combining this wisdom with advanced monitoring technologies, we can gain a fuller picture of biodiversity shifts caused by urbanization.

Community sensitization, raising awareness and educating local communities is key to protecting Arctic biodiversity. When people understand how urban expansion affects all species, including arthropods and fungi, they are more motivated to engage in conservation efforts. Sharing monitoring results in clear, accessible ways helps build trust and encourages active participation.

In Alaska’s Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, indigenous-led monitoring programs have successfully informed policies balancing development with environmental protection. Adding eDNA and remote sensing data to such efforts can improve early detection of biodiversity loss and support targeted habitat restoration.

Taking action for a sustainable Arctic

Protecting the Arctic’s biodiversity in the face of urbanization requires:

1. Supporting sustainable urban planning that minimizes habitat destruction and preserves ecological functions.
2. Encouraging responsible resource extraction and policies that safeguard vulnerable species.
3. Promoting community-based conservation programs, combining traditional knowledge with modern technology.
4. Using innovative monitoring tools like remote sensing and eDNA to detect early signs of ecological change.

By empowering communities and integrating science with local knowledge, we can work together to ensure that Arctic urban growth does not come at the expense of its rich and fragile ecosystems.

Acknowledgement: I would like to thank the I4WORLD – Imaging and Characterization for a Sustainable World Doctoral Programme and European Union for their support.