Russia is focusing on environmental issues as it develops the Arctic, Advisor to the President and Special Presidential Representative on Climate Issues Alexander Bedritsky said in an interview with the TASS News Agency.

"Russia will develop and is already developing the Arctic under new principles that prioritize environmental standards," he noted.

This involves environmental organizations that also note inadequacies and issue recommendations, Mr Bedritsky said.

He added that environmentalists have been involved in the national waste disposal program for the Arctic that was started in 2011. "Despite funding shortages, an impressive 800 million rubles were allocated in 2014," Mr Bedritsky stressed.