The colony therefore depended on maritime connections at exactly the time when those connections could become more difficult.

Climate change could make sea ice more unpredictable.

Storms could increase risk.

Longer voyages cost more.

Ships might visit less often.

European markets could find alternative sources.

Political and demographic crises in Norway and Iceland could reduce the resources available for Greenland.

Research on walrus ivory has increasingly emphasized the importance of the hunting network and the changing origin of the animals being harvested.