The Arctic’s importance has increased with the accelerated retreat of the ice sheet. This opens up maritime routes and economic opportunities in oil, gas, minerals and fishing but it threatens the fragile ecosystem, vulnerable indigenous populations and the Earth’s climate. The Arctic Council, a model for cooperation between former Cold War foes, on Thursday sees a delicate handover of chairmanship, with the sidelining of Russia, its largest member. Experts believe sidelining Russia weakens the body, where the nations have been able to address issues of common interest — from environmental protection to sustainable development and the situation of indigenous populations in the Arctic region, which is warming four times faster than the planet as a whole. Is this too delicate for the arctic nations ?