Arctic Forum: New technology rises to open up potential in northernmost Russia

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President Vladimir Putin has called for development of Russia's northernmost regions. But harsh environmental conditions require the use of new technology to increase economic potential. Julia Chapman has discussed the issue with some of the innovators assigned to the task.

Robots are not a common sight in the Arctic, but one day they could play an important role. This prototype can sort plastic from glass and paper, helping to address environmental concerns that come with industrial expansion.

VLADLEN GOLOVNYOV ENGINEER "Garbage contaminates the environment and we need to sort it. We need to sort the household waste that is contaminating the Arctic. It's a very urgent problem."

The Russian president has challenged businesses to open up the Arctic. But it's the country's technical minds who are soaring ahead to make it happen. Unearthing the region's natural resources will require new ideas, and innovative approaches to existing techniques.

ANDREY PETROV MOSCOW STATE UNIVERSITY "In Arctic region we need power sources and there are not so many sources we can use in the cold area, no hydroelectric stations for example. But we have solar light everywhere, Arctic region as well, we can use this power to generate electricity."

One of the biggest hurdles to Arctic development is access. But Russia is no stranger to difficult terrain.

JULIA CHAPMAN ST. PETERSBURG "The Arctic's unforgiving landscape presents enormous challenges for those who hope to develop it. But it also provides a source of inspiration, spurring on those in the fields of science and technology to find new solutions to the region's unique obstacles."

From oil and gas to shipping and fishing, the Arctic is brimming with opportunity. Russia is calling its best and brightest to get involved, striving to meet the challenges of opening up a new frontier. Julia Chapman, CGTN, St Petersburg.