Svalbard at a Crossroads: Tourism Versus Nature Conservation

17.11.2025

LONGYEARBYEN - Svalbard, once an isolated destination for researchers and miners, is increasingly visited by tourists. Climate change, easier accessibility, and ‘last chance’ tourism have driven rapid growth in visitor numbers. This puts pressure on the fragile ecosystem and raises questions about the balance between economic development and nature conservation.

In July 2025, journalist Maya Toebat and photographer Zeger Dox sailed from Norway to Spitsbergen on a Belgian sailboat. They documented both the rugged landscape and human presence, and interviewed researchers, guides, tour operators, and local residents.

Their report explores the complex relationship between tourism and nature, Norway’s efforts to regulate visitors, and the geopolitical significance of maintaining presence in the Arctic.

The findings will be published in Knack Weekend and Mo*, contributing to the wider debate on sustainable tourism and responsible travel to vulnerable polar regions.

Photo's: © Zeger Dox