Country Profile: Bouvet Island
Bouvet Island is a remote volcanic island located in the South Atlantic Ocean, recognized as the most isolated island on Earth, situated 1,639 km from Antarctica. It is uninhabited and almost entirely covered by glaciers, with a harsh antarctic climate that makes it largely inaccessible. The island is a territory of Norway and has been designated a nature reserve that houses an automated meteorological station and occasional research activities.
Geography
Bouvet Island lies southwest of the Cape of Good Hope and is characterized by its predominantly volcanic terrain, with 93% of its area covered by glacial ice. The island's total area measures 49 square kilometers, and it has a coastline of approximately 29.6 kilometers. Due to its remote location and harsh climate, Bouvet Island has no land boundaries or natural resources.
- 49 sq km total area
- 29.6 km of coastline
- 780 m highest point at Olavtoppen (Olav Peak)
- 0% agricultural land usage
- 0% forest cover
People and Society
Bouvet Island is uninhabited, although a small seasonal research station exists in its northwest corner. This station facilitates scientific research but does not support a permanent population. As such, the island remains largely untouched by human activity.
- Uninhabited status
- Seasonal research station present
Economy
(No information available)
Government
Bouvet Island is a territory of Norway and is administered by the Polar Department of the Ministry of Justice as well as the Oslo Police. The laws of Norway apply on the island, and it uses the Norwegian flag.
- Under Norwegian administration
- Governed by Norway's legal system
Military and Security
(No information available)
Energy
(No information available)
Environment
The island's environment is defined by its antarctic climate, with all land classified as "other," meaning it has no dedicated agricultural use or forest areas. Bouvet Island also faces natural hazards such as occasional volcanism and rock slides, along with severe winter climate conditions.
- 100% of land classified as "other"
- 0% agricultural land, arable land, permanent crops, or grassland
- Harsh antarctic climate
Transportation
(No information available)
Communications
Bouvet Island uses the internet country code .bv for communication purposes.
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | Uninhabited | No permanent inhabitants |
| Area | 49 sq km | Total area of the island |
| Geographic Coordinates | 54 26 S, 3 24 E | Location coordinates |
| Highest Point | 780 m | Olavtoppen (Olav Peak) |
| Coastline | 29.6 km | Extent of the island's coast |
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