Novosibirsk hosts major world forum on improving life in cold climates

Eminent international experts from East and West are descending on Novosibirsk for an ambitious event covering everything from the future of cities, to Arctic ecology, and winter sports and culture.

Hundreds of mayors, academic experts, government officials and advisors are expected at a Forum initiated by the government of Novosibirsk region. 

'This event is very serious: the participants will discuss the environmental issues of the northern territories, problems of city management in long winter period, the prospects winter sports development,' said governor Vasily Yurchenko. 

Arkady Dvorkovich, deputy chairman of the Russian government, told arriving participants: 'I am happy to greet you in snowy Russia. I support your desire to draw the attention of the world public to the issues related to the development of territories under severe winter conditions. 

'The residents of these territories, the government and local authorities, business people and entrepreneurs have to take account of the seasonal factor and harsh natural conditions in their life and work.

'I believe that, in the conditions of changing climate, the Forum will become an effective venue for discussing winter issues and exchanging experience in winter city management, as well as infrastructure development, health and environment.

'I wish the Forum every success and hope that its decisions will be actively used in creation of comfortable environment to live and work in and in development of business and culture, science and sports in the snow-covered territories of our country.'

The Forum will highlight technology for use in cold climates and focus on 'energy efficient and energy active houses' as part of the International Snow City Exhibition, one aspect of the Forum.

'Over 300 mayors and city management leaders of regions will participate in the ISCE 2013. More than 250 Russian and foreign companies will exhibit their equipment and developments,' said a spokesman.

A conference of mayors and city management leaders will be held to exchange best practices of coping with winter and exploiting its potential.

An ecological aspect under discussion at the three day event at the Novosibirsk Expocentre - the largest venue of its kind east of the Urals - will be the consequences for conservation of Arctic Sheolf development.

Another key theme the role of snow cover and its role 'in shaping of climatic characteristics and environmental conditions'.

A 'Snow Russian Ballet' will be staged in Russia's biggest theatre - the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre.

There will be a World Snow Sculpture competition and a Miss Snow Universe beauty pageant with 20 participants.