The Arctic is undergoing substantial changes towards denser populations, introduction of modern industries, opening of shipping lanes and increases in the standard of living, leading to modern consumption rates. At the same time, climate changes are predicted to significantly impact the ecosystems in the Arctic.

The development in the Arctic creates new challenges in relation to waste and wastewater handling, pollution control, human health, management of contaminated land and protection of the water supply. There is a need for research and development of affordable, robust and sustainable engineering solutions that fulfill supply and environmental demands within the constraints of the Arctic climatic and infrastructural conditions.

The Artek Event 2016 offers the opportunity for participants from the industry, the public sector, the science community and other stakeholders to present, discuss and exchange ideas and experience on the management of municipal and industrial waste and protection of water resources in the Arctic.


Topics include, but are not restricted to:

- Arctic context
Stand-alone/decentralized systems, island operated systems, small systems for cluster homes, remote and very small communities, cold climate issues, health issues and transportation challenges.

- Municipal wastewater
Environmental impacts, treatment (passive and active), separation and composting toilets, un-sewered communities, sewering in cold climate and sludge management.

- Drinking water
Supply, safety, resources, quality, storage, distribution and treatment.

- Extractive industries
Wastewater and solid waste, impacts, treatment methods, toxic and radioactive element removal, cyanide treatment, acid mine drainage treatment and prevention, processing chemicals impacts and treatment.

- Municipal solid waste and waste from food, fish and other industries
Characteristics and volumes, sorting, reuse, incineration, composting, anaerobic digestion, deposition, from waste to energy potential and energy technologies.

Links to external websites