Agenda-Setting in the Arctic : Critical Discourse Studies in the Case of the Norilsk Oil Spill

Abstract: This paper examines the existing discourses surrounding environmental issues in Russia using a large oil Spill in Norilsk as a case study. The spill, which occurred in the summer of 2020, is the largest man-made disaster to ever occur in the Arctic, resulting in around 21,000 tons of diesel fuel being spilled into the ground and surrounding waterways. This case presents a unique opportunity to study the discourses created in the aftermath of the spill and identify how different actors (conservationists, politicians, media, industrial actors) react and perceive the natural environment in Russia. Through the lens of Critical Discourse Studies, 9 interviews taken with actors representing various positions were analyzed through a qualitative content process, focusing on what and how was said in the interviews to identify and understand the primary discourses and what can be revealed about the groups that promote them. The analysis uncovered a range of discourses that appeared surrounding the spill, however the overarching discourses can be defined as the Expedition Discourse (representing members of the scientific community), the Conservation Discourse (representing environmental and NGO actors) and the Industrial Discourse (representing industrial and political actors). Each discourse assisted in illuminating the power structures that exist within and amongst the actors and discourses themselves. There is a delicate balance of actors promoting and pushing their own narrative whilst recognizing and respecting the existing power structures within society. The study found that the Industrial Discourse actors had the most influence and control over how the spill was perceived and reported, however, actors within each discourse worked to maintain their agency and place in the discussion. Given the limited scope of this research and specificity of the case, it is difficult to make inferences about how all actors within Russia understand and perceive environmental issues. Despite this, the research contributes to pressing issue of environmental development, especially in the context of the Arctic, and suggests continued research in this field is essential in coming years.