There’s a lot going on in the Arctic region! The unique climate attracts companies from all over the world. Facebook’s datacenter in Luleå is just one example. What happens to the traditional oil and gas industry? How do they handle the future challenges such as the climate change? What new and creative businesses and Start Ups are growing in the Arctic? 

We also talk about the buzz with the electric car industry and the fact that China is more and more interested in the arctic region. The melting of polar ice is creating the Northeast Passage, but is it viable? How much control does Russia want?

The Arctic is experiencing the greatest boom of Mass Tourism ever. Every winter flights from countries like Japan, China and the UK land in quaint sites like Rovaniemi, Levi, Tromsö, Pajala or Kiruna. New hotels are being built, to meet and greet Santa Claus is one of the kids favourites, and of course the magic northern light is a huge attraction.

At the same time the Micro Tourism, sites with small number of guests in remote areas, is growing in the Arctic. Sites like Treehotel in the north of Sweden attracts both celebrities and “regular” people from all over the world looking for something special.

Is this development sustainable for the environment, the local community and the future?