Canada is a vast country, spanning over 9.9 million square kilometers, making it the second-largest country in the world. However, despite its immense size, a significant portion of Canada’s land remains untouched by humans. In fact, over 80 per cent of Canada’s land is uninhabited, with the majority of the population concentrated in a few large cities near the southern border with the United States.
The untouched wilderness of Canada can be attributed to its unique geography and challenging environment, which can be rather unfriendly to human settlement. Let’s delve into some of the factors that contribute to this reality.
1. Harsh Climate: Canada experiences extreme weather conditions, especially in the northern regions. Winters can be long and bitterly cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing for extended periods. This makes it challenging for human habitation, as it requires significant resources and infrastructure to survive in such harsh conditions.
2. Inhospitable Terrain: Canada is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including vast forests, rugged mountains, expansive tundra, and countless lakes and rivers. While these natural features contribute to the country’s beauty, they also present challenges for human settlement. For example, dense forests and rugged mountains can make transportation and infrastructure development difficult, limiting opportunities for human habitation.
3. Remote Locations: Canada’s vastness means that many regions are located in remote areas, far away from major urban centers and transportation networks. This isolation makes it more challenging for people to access essential services and amenities, further discouraging human settlement in these areas.
4. Limited Natural Resources: While Canada is rich in natural resources, including minerals, forests, and oil reserves, these resources are not evenly distributed across the country. As a result, some regions may lack the economic opportunities necessary to support a significant population, leading to low human presence in these areas.
5. Indigenous Territories: In addition to the challenging geography, a significant portion of Canada’s uninhabited land is also occupied by Indigenous peoples. These communities have historically lived in harmony with nature and have preserved vast tracts of land for cultural, spiritual, and environmental reasons. This preservation of land by Indigenous communities contributes to the overall untouched nature of Canada’s wilderness.
It is essential to note that while much of Canada’s land remains uninhabited, it does not mean these areas are devoid of human impact. Indigenous communities have long-standing connections to these lands, and activities such as hunting, fishing, and cultural practices have shaped the environment. Additionally, some areas may be utilized for resource extraction or protected as national parks, further influencing human presence and impact.
Over 80 per cent of Canada’s land is untouched by human settlement. This is due to a combination of factors, including the country’s harsh climate, inhospitable terrain, remote locations, limited resources, and the preservation of land by Indigenous communities. While Canada’s vast wilderness may pose challenges for human habitation, it is also a source of pride and beauty, offering opportunities for adventure, exploration, and the preservation of nature.