The European Parliament, through a resolution voted on this week, is calling for rules to safeguard the fragile Arctic ecosystem and wants to introduce a ban on the extraction of oil and natural gas in order to keep the area as a low-tension zone of cooperation. The resolution, passed by a large majority – 483 votes in favour, 100 against and 37 abstentions – is non-binding.

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♥ 21💬 10 15 mar 2017 · Apri su X →

The Arctic is disappearing

The Arctic is warming at twice the global average rate and sea ice has decreased significantly since 1981, to the point that it is now around 40% smaller than it was in the summer 35 years ago.
The four million people who live in the Arctic region, together with the flora and fauna found there, are the first to suffer the negative consequences of rising pollution. For this reason, according to Strasbourg, it is essential that "the vulnerable Arctic environment and the fundamental rights of indigenous peoples must be respected and protected with stricter safeguards".

The Arctic population is severely tested by the melting of glaciers © Uriel Sinai/Getty Images

The Arctic is warming at twice the average rate © Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Arctic glaciers are retreating and are 40% smaller than they were 35 years ago. © Joe Raedle/Getty Images

With the melting of ice due to climate change, the Arctic is becoming a coveted fishing zone. © Joe Raedle/Getty Images

An end to drilling

Strasbourg is calling for a ban on "oil drilling in the EU's and the European Economic Area's (EEA) Arctic ice-covered waters", and for the prohibition of fossil fuel use that could further accelerate climate change.
With the resolution, MEPs reiterate calls already made in 2014 to halt the use of heavy fuel oil in maritime transport in the Arctic Ocean. Should this prove impossible given the international situation, the Commission should establish rules prohibiting the use and carriage of heavy fuel oil (HFO) on vessels bound for EU ports.

The Arctic's environmental problems and economic conflicts

According to EU MEPs, climate change is creating new environmental and security problems. The melting of the Arctic ice cap is opening up new shipping routes and new fishing areas, and increasing competition for its natural resources.
"The Arctic region is very sensitive and vulnerable. If we destroy this area by exploiting its resources unsustainably, we are not only destroying a unique region, but also accelerating climate change, reducing our chances of having clean water, and the effects on fish stocks will be devastating," said Sirpa Pietikainen of the European People's Party and co-rapporteur of the resolution.

The geopolitical importance of the Arctic

As the ice melts, the geopolitical importance of the Arctic is growing. Since 2015, Russian armed forces have established at least six new bases north of the Arctic Circle, including six deep-water ports and 13 aerodromes. China, too, has set its sights on the Arctic for access to new trade routes and new energy resources.
The area, according to Strasbourg, must instead remain a low-tension zone, and in this the role of the Arctic Council becomes fundamental in "maintaining constructive cooperation, low tension and stability" in the region.

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