Human–environment interactions at a short-lived Arctic mine and the long-term response of the local tundra vegetation

Abstract Arctic mining has a bad reputation because the extractive industry is often responsible for suite of environmental problems. Yet, few studies explore gap between untouched tundra and messy megaproject from historical perspective. Our paper focuses on Advent City as case study emergence coal in Svalbard (Norway) coupled with onset mining-related change. After short but intensive human activity (1904–1908), ecosystem had century to respond, we observe lasting impact flora particular. With interdisciplinary contributions archaeology, archaeozoology, archaeobotany botany, supplemented by stable isotope analysis, examine 1) which activities initially asserted pressure environment, 2) whether miners at were “eco-conscious,” example they showed concern environment 3) how local reacted after mine closure site abandonment. Among remains typical infrastructure, prioritised localities that revealed subtleties long-term anthropogenic impact. Significant resulted landscape modifications, import non-native animals plants, hunting fowling, indiscriminate disposal waste material. Where it was possible identify individual inhabitants, these shared an economic attitude not, want not , did hold high regard. Ground clearances, animal dung dumps continue have effect hundred years. The interference fell field led habitat creation, especially vascular plants. vegetation cover biodiversity high, recorded no exotic or threatened plant species. Impacted generally reduction natural patchiness communities, highly eutrophic conditions unsuitable liverworts lichens. Supplementary isotopic analysis bones added data marine reservoir offset underlining far-reaching potential our multi-proxy approach. We conclude although damaging human–environment interactions formerly took place City, limited primarily left visual ruins. such dynamic area subtle effects may soon be lost. fauna recover what before arrived, will respond new post-industrial circumstances.