Russia mines gold, tin, tungsten, diamonds, nickel, copper, and coal in the Arctic. Coal is mined in Svalbard, and iron ore is mined In northern Sweden. Geologic exploration continues throughout the North American Arctic. Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is believed to contain significant reserves of oil but is closed to drilling because of environmental concerns. Indeed, some areas of the Arctic, such as Pealy Land in northern Greenland, are drier than the world's tropical deserts.
Arctic winters are long and cold, and summers are short and cool.
The Arctie Ocean, which receives relatively warm north-flowing currents from the Atlantic and Pacific, acts as a moderating influence, especially on the surrounding shores and islands. In summer, especially, this is associated with cloud cover and fog. The Greenland ice sheet and the Arctic Ocean maintain cold temperatures throughout the year, but the tundra-covered coastal fringes warm up each summer for a brief period. Arctic winds are less prevalent and strong than those of Antarctica, but coasts are subject to cyclonic storms. Despite the Arctic's harsh environment, the zone contains a varied plant and animal life.