New agricultural opportunities are emerging in South Greenland along with the gradual climate changes that are taking place. The extent of available land resources and agricultural production is currently relatively limited (an area of roughly 1,000 ha is available for crops compared with 250,000 ha for grazing). Sustainable management in harmony with nature and the environment will require a careful mapping of the soil, plant communities and their robustness in terms of protecting the soil and the vegetation as resources for the people of Greenland.

Agricultural production supports the Greenlandic heritage, settlements and employment in the settlements and contributes to the self-sufficiency of Greenlandic quality foods.

Farming must be carried out with care and be based on scientific surveys to ensure that the soil is not depleted and biodiversity not compromised, which would otherwise leave the soil infertile for future generations. This requires a thorough understanding of the vulnerability of the land in terms of soil depth, organic matter content, water and vegetation in order to optimize its sustainable use.

The extensive and varied use of the landscape of South Greenland calls for a mapping tool that can ensure the most appropriate use of the South Greenland area for the farming of sheep and reindeer,  growing of potatoes and winter forage, etc., while respecting nature and biodiversity.

Every year 3-4 students are invited to join our expedition to Greenland. Interested students (MSc or PhD) can contact Professor Lis Wollesen de Jonge for information.

Read more about the section's activities in Greenland here.