This paper develops an approach established on the concept of Best Available Techniques (BAT), which is used to promote industrial resource efficiency while reducing negative environmental impact. Authors focus their attention on the Arctic Region of the Russian Federation. They analyse the current situation on the BAT implementation in the Arctic and consider requirements of relevant legislative acts and standards, sectoral structure of the Arctic industries, and specific environmental issues of the region. Authors consider challenges and opportunities for enhancing the overall understanding of the BAT concept via capacity building of industrialists, civil servants, researchers, university teachers and students. Additionally, the paper describes an Arctic “green” case study analysing results achieved by a Russian mining industry by the means of BAT implementation. Authors suggest using “green” case study-oriented training programmes to provide for the multidisciplinary approach and to make university courses and professional qualification courses more interactive and effective.

The paper presents research results for NOX reduction for moderate incomplete combustion, its impact on the environment and boiler reliability, optimal combustion conditions criteria, and its implementation in operating steam and hot-water boilers. The authors pay additional attention to the cost efficiency criterion while analysing the best method for reducing NOX. After conducting a numerical calculation for combustion processes under certain defined conditions, the authors suggest a new method for emission reduction by suppression of thermal NOX formation using the extended Zeldovich mechanism. Research shows up to 40% NOX reduction potential for existing boilers depending on fuel type and operating conditions with CO concentration in stack gases lower than standard levels due to chemical incomplete combustion.