(AiF-Krasnoyarsk) - The interaction of subsoil users with indigenous peoples was discussed at the Krasnoyarsk Economic Forum 2023 as an element of business strategy based on the principles of social and environmental development (ESG). The discussion was attended by representatives of government, business and the peoples of the North.
The experts discussed the adaptation of the ESG standards established by international financial institutions in the current economic conditions in Russia, the experience of running a socially responsible business, as well as the dissemination of knowledge in the field of social management among the indigenous peoples of Russia.
The discussion was attended by a representative of Norilsk Nickel, who shared his experience of working with the indigenous peoples of the North and projects to create comfortable living conditions for them.
The company implements a whole range of programs to support the indigenous peoples of the north. The total investment of the metallurgical company in the program to promote the social and economic development of Taimyr is more than 2 billion rubles. For example, Norilsk Nickel facilitated the purchase of 10 one-room apartments with furniture and household appliances for orphans. Also, 8 residential buildings were built in Ust-Avam and Volochanka, and a total of 20 houses are planned to be built.
“We have been working in Taimyr for more than 80 years, and today, within the framework of the responsibility standard for residents of the Arctic zone, Russia adheres to all the principles reflected in it. On the territory of the peninsula, an ethnological examination of the factors that ensure the sustainable development of indigenous peoples has been organized, the company has approved a policy for interaction with indigenous peoples, a large five-year support program has been developed jointly with them, an agreement has been concluded with the Associations of Indigenous Peoples,” emphasized the head of the department for working with Indigenous Peoples of the North of the Polar Branch of Norilsk Nickel Anfisa Nikiforova.
Sergei Sizonenko, deputy of the Legislative Assembly of the Krasnoyarsk Territory from Taimyr, commented on the results of the discussion. He noted that mining companies operating in the Arctic should not only build a dialogue with indigenous peoples, but also use existing mechanisms for assessing the impact of subsoil users on the environment.
