Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a land of contrasts. Despite its vast size and strategic location, with abundant natural resources and a long history of human habitation, there is one striking feature that sets it apart from many other places in the world: no two communities in Greenland are connected by road.
With over 50 distinct settlements spread across its 830,297 square miles of land, Greenland is a place where transportation solutions have evolved to meet the unique challenges of its environment. While there are roughly 93 miles of roads within the communities, only about 56 miles are paved, and the capital city of Nuuk is the only place with traffic lights.
The lack of a developed road network in Greenland does not reflect a lack of progress or modernity. On the contrary, Greenland is a vibrant and forward-looking society with rich cultural traditions and bright economic prospects. The absence of roads has simply led to the adoption of more practical modes of travel that are better suited to the country’s rugged terrain and harsh weather conditions.
One of the main reasons why Greenlanders do not rely heavily on roads is the engineering challenges posed by the country’s climate. With temperatures rarely reaching above 50°F, even in the summer months, building and maintaining roads becomes a difficult task. As a result, Greenlanders have turned to alternative forms of transportation such as snowmobiles, dog sledding, sea travel, and air travel.
Snowmobiles are a common sight in Greenland, with over 2,000 registered in the country. Dog sledding, a tradition that has been passed down for thousands of years, remains a popular mode of transportation in many remote communities. Sea travel, including passenger and dingy boats, is used to navigate Greenland’s extensive coastline, while air travel, often in small planes or helicopters, is essential for connecting more isolated communities.
The absence of a road network has also influenced Greenland’s approach to economic development. While fishing, especially shrimp fishing, remains the country’s main industry, the challenges of accessing mineral resources have led the government to take a cautious approach to developing the extractives sector. This careful approach has not only preserved Greenland’s pristine environment but has also paved the way for the growth of tourism, particularly cruise tourism, as a key economic driver.
In conclusion, while the lack of roads between communities in Greenland may seem unusual to outsiders, it is a reflection of the country’s unique geography and the practical solutions that have evolved to meet its transportation needs. Greenland’s reliance on alternative modes of travel, its careful approach to economic development, and its commitment to preserving its natural environment make it a truly exceptional place in the world.