Arctic Sustainable Development: Role of Business in the Quadruple Helix Model (Example of Norilsk Nickel)

Abstract

The article discusses the role and significance of Norilsk Nickel as one of the actors of sustainable development in the Arctic region. The author considers Norilsk Nickel’s projects and argues for the company’s significant role in achieving UN goals (in particular, SDGs 6-8, 12-15, 17), strengthening the system of sustainable development and links between other actors. The author argues that some of the UN SDGs are achieved by the Company through the development of the ESG system, elimination of negative consequences of its activities, assumption of some responsibilities by other actors, active interaction with public and state actors, research and international structures. The methodological basis of the study was the Helix model, in particular “Quadruple helix», which is traditionally used to analyze the role of actors of innovative development. As a result of the analysis of Nornickel projects, the author proposes the development of the helix model by adding a fifth spiral and the role of «Destructor» (to the roles of «Observer» and «Creator»). In the transition to sustainable development there are cases of not only creative but also destructive roles of actors (arising spontaneously or consciously). With a responsible and conscious attitude toward sustainable development, a destructive actor’s role can stimulate constructive roles.