Russia will lag on climate action despite policy shift

Subject

Climate change policy views in Russia.

Significance

After years of delay, the Russian government has acceded to the Paris Agreement to limit global warming. This is a positive step, although the decision is more symbolism than substance. Moscow's obligations under the agreement are very limited and powerful domestic interests are obstructing implementation of a more active climate policy.

Impacts

• Due to warming in the Arctic, Russia plans to increase cargo traffic along its Arctic maritime route to 80 million tonnes per year by 2024.
• As Russia promotes itself as an international climate leader, state-owned Rusnano is promoting high-tech solutions to emissions reductions.
• Objections to radical policy change will not be couched in the language of climate change denial.