Man-made disasters and challenges to environmental management in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia)

Abstract

In the context of increasing technogenic pressure on the environment, the issue of sustainable natural resource management in Russia’s northern regions is becoming particularly urgent. This is especially evident in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), where harsh climatic conditions, permafrost, and intensive industrial development create unique risks. The purpose of this study was to identify the key challenges that man-made disasters pose to environmental management in Yakutia, with a focus on social, ecological, and administrative aspects. The materials included academic publications on technogenic accidents, statistical data, regulatory documents, and real-life case studies such as the accident at the Mir mine and a fuel spill in Amga District. The methodological framework involved comparative and situational analysis, interpretation of expert assessments, and synthesis of theoretical approaches. The results showed that man-made disasters destabilize not only the ecological but also the social resilience of the region, particularly through increasing unemployment among rotational workers and the degradation of permafrost. Institutional and legal shortcomings in disaster prevention and response were identified. The study proposes the implementation of digital monitoring systems, corporate environmental responsibility mechanisms, and the adaptation of federal standards to northern specificities. The practical significance of the study lies in its applicability for policymakers and companies seeking to reduce accident risks and enhance regional sustainability. Future research should focus on developing adaptive models for managing technogenic risks under permafrost conditions.