European Commission fixes its gaze on Arctic region

Citation

(2009), "European Commission fixes its gaze on Arctic region", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 20 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/meq.2009.08320cab.004

European Commission fixes its gaze on Arctic region

Article Type: News From: Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, Volume 20, Issue 3

The European Commission has issued plans to increase its involvement in the Arctic region. The objective is to help protect the Arctic environment and exploit untapped oil resources in the region. “The Arctic is a unique and vulnerable region located in the immediate vicinity of Europe. Enhancing the EU’s contribution to Arctic cooperation will open new perspectives in our relations with the Arctic states”, said Benita Ferrero-Waldner external relations commissioner.

The commission proposes to strengthen international efforts to mitigate climate change in the region and identify areas where support for adaptation to climate change should be provided. Other environmental actions proposed include stepping up efforts to reduce marine pollution, particularly chemical contamination levels. The EU should also explore in collaboration with other countries the region’s large untapped oil resources, the commission says. These could contribute to Europe’s energy security, it adds. But operators should comply with strict environmental standards. Green group WWF has warned against a rush towards Arctic oil, calling for a moratorium on exploitation in the region. Marine protection association Oceana urged the commission to take a precautionary approach to prevent environmental disasters caused by “irresponsible developments”.