International co-operation is vital for substantiating Arctic environmental values and for safeguarding the sustainable development of these last pristine wilderness areas in Europe. Obsolete and ageing practices and technologies. The European nations should recognise the unique values of the European Arctic environment, it's ecosystems, biodiversity, wilderness areas and cultural heritage, and see it as their common responsibility to protect these values for the benefit of today's and future generations. Concerted action by European and other nations is needed to counteract current environmental problems, restore affected areas and resources, and ensure an environmentally sustainable future development. It should be recognised that in order to achieve this ' a different and higher level of environmental management is needed in the European Arctic than in most other parts of Europe.
Action is needed at all geopolitical levels.
International co-operation can direct political focus and resources to the region, and facilitate coordinated responses to transboundary issues and problems. Still, the main responsibility for actions lies with the individual nations. Most economic activity, management, development, and enforcement of regulations within the European Arctic is based on national law. As most important activities in the European Arctic are locally based action, information and education at this level are essential.