Russia to develop methodology for harmful emissions recording

MOSCOW, January 14. /TASS/. Russia has started developing the methodology of pollutant emissions recording, Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said at the Gaidar Forum on Thursday. "We need to develop our own classification and methodology of pollutants recording. This activity has just started for the time being. Furthermore, it must conform to European standards," Novak said. The country will approve its climatic strategy in 2021, the Deputy Prime Minister said. "As you know, Russia is the participant in the Paris Climate Agreement. The relevant strategy will be approved in Russia this year," Novak said. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed the decree on reduction of carbon emissions in 2020, the official added. The Russian methodology of emissions recording will be improved subject to carbon dioxide consumption by forests, Novak noted. Nevertheless, energy saving programs must be implemented in each and every economic sector, he said. At the same time, introduction of carbon taxes in countries importing energy resources will lead to a higher tax burden for producers and lower investments in production, Novak said. "Introduction of carbon taxes is not highly acceptable for us because this is essentially an increase of the tax burden for suppliers. Tradeoffs should e sought in this aspect, including our European partners. In particular, we have allies in this regard among countries that are major exporters of energy resources," the official said. Introduction of carbon taxes reduces profitability of producing business and hence investments into exploration and production of resources, Novak said. "The result can be that the world can face a shortage in resources in the foreseeable perspective, when the planet’s population will grow," he added. Read more