top of page

Oslo, Norway’s Unique Approach to Curbing Carbon Emissions

Gradient Ocean

Terry Cullen

Apr 4, 2023

Norway

Categories:

Climate Change, Environment, Green Economy, Carbon Footprint, Cities

This article from PBS's News Weekend (Public Broadcasting Service - USA), dated November 20, 2022, details the City of Oslo, Norway's unique approach to reducing carbon emissions through an interview with Heidi Sorenson, Director of the Agency for Climate for Oslo.


The capital city of Norway, Oslo (population estimated 709,000 in 2022), has an ambitious plan to be close to carbon neutrality by the year 2030 (Goal - reduce current carbon emissions by 95%). How? Each year city officials calculate how much activity will produce greenhouse gas emissions. Then they implement a carbon budget to keep overall emissions for the City low. The City has a city agency devoted to climate change issues, the Agency for Climate.


Interestingly enough, Norway is one of the world's top oil and gas-producing countries. According to WiseVoter.com, Norway ranks 11th of all countries in oil production, ahead of Mexico and behind Kuwait. Most of that oil gets exported, and most of the country's energy needs come from hydroelectric power.


What is intriguing about Oslo's approach is the City does not force local industries to comply with reduced carbon emissions. However, each of them regularly reports to the city government about their carbon emissions. How, then, does it work?


One obvious way is through reporting carbon emissions. Each industry is keenly aware of the City's carbon footprint and progress to reduce it. Everyone knows who needs to make headway to reduce their carbon footprint. The City views every entity in Oslo as an active stakeholder. With this much visibility, companies are much more sensitive to the public's perception of their role and the impact on their brand and goodwill, two intangible assets.


The City fosters regular dialog with the community to build understanding, knowledge, and awareness further. This dialog creates a proactive carbon footprint reduction constituency that prides itself on its City's accomplishments. Oslo was named European Green Capital in 2019, and with that honor comes commitments to ambitious climate and environment goals.


Another method the City uses is letting contracts only to companies and organizations actively cutting carbon emissions. Those industries that work with and profit from public sector investment are incentivized to comply with city standards voluntarily. An example of a success story is the number of zero-emission construction sites throughout the City.


The approach is working, but projections show Oslo may fall short of achieving its goal in 2030, yet officials remain optimistic. The results they have achieved so far are much better than most countries.


Sorenson believes that cities are leading the world in climate change. According to her, people living in cities tend to be more progressive, want workable solutions, and are willing to work together to develop solutions to improve the lives of their communities.


What can we learn from Oslo's example that could help our communities? Consider that cities will lead the way on climate change or at least have an essential role. Is your community taking a proactive approach to climate change or simply deferring to higher levels of government (regional and national) to do the work? Everyone must do their part to reduce our overall carbon footprint collectively, so why not cities?


Reuters estimates that the green economy will be worth an estimated USD 10.3 trillion by 2050 (yes, you read that right). Recent economic history shows that early disrupters and adopters stand to gain the most economically. What could that mean for your community?


Consider talking with your local elected officials and gauging their level of support. Research examples of communities in your country or region that are besting yours and how similar changes may help your hometown. Is there a way to recognize and honor businesses in your community making a positive difference with their carbon footprint? Like the City of Oslo, build understanding, knowledge, and awareness.


If climate change is your passion, take a page from Oslo's playbook and inspire change in your community.


Photo by Einar Storsul on Unsplash.

Source:

Source:

Where_in_the_world_is_Syria_.png

Catalog #:

0423.100.01.040423

bottom of page