Test: Melting Ice in Alaska - Class 8 MCQ

The primary environmental issue facing the Yup’ik people of Newtok is the melting of permafrost. This thawing weakens the ground, leading to significant structural damage in their village. As the permafrost melts, it contributes to rising sea levels and increased erosion, which threatens their homes and way of life.

The Yup’ik people traditionally lived a nomadic hunting and gathering lifestyle, relying on seals, moose, and wild plants for survival. This subsistence way of life allowed them to adapt to the harsh conditions of their environment until they settled permanently in Newtok in 1949.

One consequence of climate change in relation to Newtok is the thawing of frozen soil, or permafrost. This process destabilizes the land, leading to the sinking and collapsing of structures, which poses a severe threat to the safety of the community.

Families in Newtok are considering relocating to Mertarvik primarily due to safety concerns arising from climate change. The erosion of land and the risk of flooding have made Newtok increasingly unsafe, prompting the community to seek higher ground.

The Yup’ik community faces significant challenges during their relocation, particularly regarding inadequate housing and incomplete infrastructure in Mertarvik. Only a fraction of the necessary homes are ready, and essential services such as water and sewage systems are still under construction.

Climate change deeply affects the Yup’ik people's cultural identity by creating mixed emotions about leaving their ancestral land. While they understand the necessity of relocating for safety, the loss of their home brings sadness and a sense of loss regarding their cultural heritage.

Martha Kasaiuli represents the Yup’ik community as a poet who expresses the mixed feelings and sadness of her people regarding the relocation from Newtok. Her poems reflect the emotional struggles and attachment to their homeland, illustrating the human impact of climate change.

A significant environmental effect of thawing permafrost is the release of greenhouse gases. As the frozen soil melts, it releases carbon dioxide and methane, which contribute to further global warming, creating a cycle that exacerbates climate change.

Studies warn that much of Newtok may be swallowed by the river as early as 2027, highlighting the urgent need for the community to consider relocation and adaptation strategies in response to climate change.

The lesson conveys that the human experience in relation to climate change emphasizes the importance of adaptability and unity. It illustrates how the Yup’ik people are navigating the challenges posed by climate change while maintaining their cultural identity and community bonds, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.