From time to time, Russian experts and media spread the opinion that the whole world is losing from global climate change, but Russia is gaining, albeit partially. For example, Russian media distributes publications with headlines like: “Russia benefits from global warming”.

However, according to the results of a new study, which was reported by the authors of Science Daily on February 21, 2023, Russia is experiencing significant consequences from climate change and is not ready to either mitigate or adapt to these challenges. Moreover, in the context of the global transition to renewable energy sources, the Russian government, which is dependent on fossil fuels, is not eager or ready to develop alternative plans for the country that could benefit the entire society.

The study, conducted by a team from Russia as part of the PONARS program, analyzed the impact of climate change on Russia and its role in global efforts to combat climate change. They found that, despite the government's optimistic statements, Russia is already suffering from various consequences of climate change and is not ready to adapt to these challenges.

Russia, one of the world's largest grain producers and exporters, faces the effects of climate change such as floods, heat waves, droughts and wildfires, affecting not only communities but also agriculture, forestry and water resources. Global warming has also had a major impact on Russia's permafrost, which is melting at an alarming rate, causing landslides, flooding and infrastructure destruction.

However, Russian leaders interpret these climate influences to their advantage, encouraging citizens to perceive them as advantages. For example, despite warnings from Russian scientists about extreme temperatures and declining sea ice in the Arctic, the government touts a year-round shipping route through the Arctic and a more comfortable climate. Despite research into the impacts of climate change, policies to reduce the vulnerability of some regions to climate impacts are limited, and adaptation planning and implementation remain low.

Russia's carbon-intensive war in Ukraine has only worsened the climate crisis, adding several million additional tons of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. Thus, the myth of Russia benefiting from climate change is refuted, pointing to serious challenges and the unpreparedness of the Russian government to adapt and mitigate the effects of climate change.