REGIONAL MODEL OF ENVIRONMENTAL AUDIT IN THE ESG MANAGEMENT SYSTEM OF THE ARCTIC ZONE

Abstract

The Arctic zone of the Russian Federation is a key megaregion combining enormous natural resource potential and exceptional ecological vulnerability. The need to move from fragmented monitoring to a complex environmental audit system that integrates sustainable development requirements and relevant standards is justified. The territorial features are considered: the western regions have a developed industrial infrastructure, while the eastern regions face problems of remoteness and seasonality. The impact of climate change (degradation of permafrost, intensification of hydrological extremes), anthropogenic pollution (methane and black carbon emissions) and socio-economic factors (population migration, preservation of the traditional way of life of indigenous peoples) is analysed. A quantitative analysis of greenhouse gas emissions, polluted wastewater discharges, and the proportion of protected areas in Arctic regions is provided. A regional model with five areas of focus is proposed: a risk- and ecosystem-oriented approach, digitalisation and monitoring, localisation of standards, social participation and legitimacy, and economic incentives. The implementation of the model is intended to increase the region's sustainability and ensure a balance between development and nature conservation.