Why is Greenland's population very low?

84% of Greenland is covered by ice and the remaining 16% of Greenland is mostly permafrost and rocky with sparse vegetation. read more

Reindeer have been introduced to Greenland, but it took decades to establish a stable population. There is only one, very tiny forested area, Qinngua Valley. The lack of trees would have undermined early settlements as wood is a great source of fuel and materials needed for making tools and shelter. read more

There are some factors that have contributed to the low population number. Iceland was one of the last countries to be settled in Europe. Settlement began in the years 870–930. read more

The rate of suicide in Greenland is very high. According to a 2010 census, Greenland holds the highest suicide rate in the world. Other significant social issues faced by Greenland are high rates of unemployment, alcoholism, and HIV/AIDS. read more