OCTA

Overseas Countries
and Territories Association

The EU wants to eliminate fossil fuel extraction in the Arctic regions (1)

The EU wants a moratorium on fossil fuel extraction in the Arctic regions

French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF), Greenland

The European Union will advocate for “a moratorium” on fossil fuel extraction in the Arctic. Indeed, according to the European Commissioner for the Environment, Virginijus Sinkevičius, the commission is launching an appeal  to eliminate oil, gas and coal extractions in the arctic, a particularly vulnerable region. The EU wants to lead by example, through a conversion of its energy mix. It should be remembered that the EU imports 87% of the gas from the Russian Arctic region. Within the framework of the European Green Pact, the protection of the Arctic also includes sustainable socio-economic development with respect to local populations. Europe also wishes to increase research on the effects of climate change in this region. On the other hand, Europe aims to increase its diplomatic presence in the region through Greenland.

More information on the commission website here