Norway’s Environmental Targets Action for the environment 3 ————————— Priority areas and tools Useful for achieving our goals 4 websites: Priority areas www.miljo.no 01 Living seas and coastal environments 6 www.environment.no 02 Healthy lakes and rivers 10 www.klif.no 03 Rich and varied wetlands 14 www.dirnat.no 04 Forest diversity 18 www.npolar.no 05 Spectacular mountain landscapes 22 www.ra.no 06 A valuable cultural heritage 26 www.statkart.no 07 A good urban environment 30 08 The great outdoors 34 ————————— 09 An unpolluted environment 38 10 Clean air 42 11 A stable climate 46

Instruments Knowledge and geographical information 50 Legislation and planning procedures 52 International cooperation 54

Norway’s Environmental Targets was published in Norwegian in 2011. This translated version contains some updates and corrections, but has not been completely revised.

7U\NN$QGYRUG*UDILVN$6 Action for the environment

Thirty years ago, acid rain was killing fish People have always left evidence of their in Norwegian rivers. Now, both salmon and ­activities behind them, altering the environ- trout are back again in many rivers thanks to ment for better or worse. Our cultural herit- concerted national and international efforts age does more than tell our history – it is also to cut emissions. part of a dynamic contemporary environ- ment. But it, too, is vulnerable: once build- Norway’s nature reaches from the deepest ings and cultural landscapes are destroyed seabed to the topmost mountain peaks, or ­removed, they are lost for ever. and from the thickest forest to the highest waterfall. Rivers and lakes have always People all over the world are moving to cities. attracted people, who use them for transport, Even in Norway, most of us live in built- food and energy, and now also for enjoyment. up areas. Environmental protection is also Water is a basic necessity, and in much of ­concerned with how we organise our every- Norway we can drink it straight from the day lives. People want to live near workplaces, source. Running water still pervades the theatres, cinemas, museums and shops, Norwegian landscape, even though nine of partly because they want to avoid depend- our eleven waterfalls have been harnessed ency on cars. At the same time, they want to for hydropower production. Wetlands purify be close to the countryside. Norwegians are water entirely free of charge, and are highly great outdoor enthusiasts. productive ecosystems. Stronger action is needed to safeguard these vulnerable Wherever we live, we are entitled to an ecosystems. unpolluted environment that promotes good health and welfare. We used to be able The seas too support a rich variety of living to see pollutants in the smoke from factory organisms. Norway’s seas are some of the chimneys. Nowadays they are just as likely most productive in the world – a blue-green, to exit through the gate in the manufactured self-replenishing treasure chest. But seabirds products. Local air quality in Norway’s largest such as puffins and guillemots are seriously towns is still not good enough. We must take threatened. We must redouble our efforts to fresh action to deal with these problems. save them. Climate change is perhaps the greatest However, most of the threatened plants and threat humanity has ever faced. The Earth’s animals in Norway are forest species. Forests temperature is rising. To ignore this would are the home of the red helleborine, one of be a crime against our own and future our most beautiful orchids, and of the lynx, ­generations. That is why Norway’s goal is brown bear and wolf. Without protection ­stabilisation of the global climate system. measures, these species would have disap- peared from Norway. In this publication you can read about ­Norway’s environmental targets and what we Almost one third of Norway’s spectacular are doing to reach them. Many of the targets mountain landscapes are protected. Wild are ambitious and will not be easy to achieve, reindeer, lemming, wolverine and Arctic fox but we know that environmental action does are some of the species we find here. Thanks produce results. to breeding programmes and other action, the Arctic fox has so far been saved from extinction.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 3 ————————— environment.no

Priority areas and This website provides up-to-date infor- mation on the state of the environment­ and environmental trends in Norway. tools for achieving Some of the infor­mation is presented in English, and more complete information is available from the Norwegian version our goals of the website, miljostatus.no. —————————

This publication presents the priority Norway’s targets for biodiversity also What is the Norwegian ­areas of Norway’s environmental policy reflect the Aichi Targets. These were Nature Index? and the main policy instruments the adopted in 2010 by the parties to the ­Ministry of the Environment uses to Convention on Biological Diversity in The Nature Index is designed to show trends in biodiversity in major ecosys- achieve its goals. For each priority area, Nagoya, Japan, as part of the Strategic tems, and is expressed on a scale from a specific set of national targets has been Plan for Biodiversity. According to its 0 to 1. The values show deviation from drawn up, based on government policy mission statement, the overall aim is to a reference state, which is given the as set out in white papers and other policy “take effective and urgent action to halt value 1 and is intended to represent documents. These are listed in the appro- the loss of biodiversity in order to ensure an ecologically sustainable state. The priate chapters. The Norwegian Nature that by 2020 ecosystems are resilient and value 0 indicates large deviations from Index is one of the tools we are using to continue to provide essential services”. the reference state, for example the ­extinction of a species within a particular measure progress towards our targets. area. The overall objective is to measure whether Norway is succeeding in halt- ing the loss of biodiversity, as we have undertaken to do under the Convention on Biological Diversity.

————————— Norwegian Red List for Ecosystems and Habitat Types

The Norwegian Biodiversity Informa- tion Centre made a first assessment of the status of ecosystems and habitats in 2011, and published a Red List on the same pattern as national and interna- tional Red Lists for species. It is only available in Norwegian at present.

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4 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets Living seas and coastal Healthy lakes and rivers Rich and varied wetlands Forest diversity environments

Spectacular mountain A valuable cultural heritage A good urban environment The great outdoors landscapes

An unpolluted environment Clean air A stable climate

Instruments: legislation and planning procedures; international cooperation; knowledge and geographical information

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 5 Living seas and coastal environments

Imagine a deep blue-green treasure chest that replenishes itself. Norway is one of the fortunate countries that actually possesses one – the cold, clean waters off its coast. We must take good care of our treasures so that they can be enjoyed by future generations as well.

Natural resources from the sea have clean waters, and tourism and outdoor world’s largest cold-water coral reefs, made Norway one of the world’s fore- recreation are also a vital part of the which provide a unique habitat of global most maritime nations. We have always economy. importance. Many of the species found in drawn on marine and coastal waters Norway’s seas support a rich variety the coastal zone are highly specialised to for growth and prosperity. Today, of marine life. There are internationally deal with extremes such as the alterna- ­Norway’s ­largest export industries are important fish stocks such as herring tion between submersion and drying out the offshore oil and gas industry and the (Clupea harengus), cod (Gadus morhua) in the intertidal zone or exposure to salt fisheries. Maritime transport is another and capelin (Mallotus villosus), and sea- spray above the shoreline. important industry, and there are busy birds such as puffins (Fratercula arctica), ports all along ­Norway’s long coast. Brünnich’s guillemots (Uria lomvia) and Kelp, fish and seabirds at risk Offshore wind ­power is a new sector, little auks (Alle alle). Marine mammals Norway’s maritime areas stretch 200 with ­considerable growth potential in include walrus (Odobenus rosmarus), ­nautical miles out from the coast of the Norwegian waters. And of course, visitors bearded seal (Erignathus barbatus) mainland, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, from all over the world are attracted to and beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). and are about six times larger than Norway’s spectacular coastal scenery and On the seabed, there are some of the its land territory. They include large

6 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Kim Abel/Naturarkivet.no©Kim

relatively shallow areas in the North sea urchins, but has shown some signs Sea, the ­Barents Sea and the continental of recovery. Sugar kelp has declined shelf ­areas along the coast, and this is dramatically because of a combination of one reason­ for the high biodiversity in higher water temperature, eutrophication ­Norway’s waters. Much of the biologi- and sediment deposition, and the rapid cal production in the world’s oceans is loss of sugar kelp forests is continuing in ­concentrated in shallow waters. the southern half of the country. Habitat types vary widely, from the It is estimated that about 80 % of the deep seabed via the water column, the sugar kelp along the Skagerrak coast of continental slope, shallow waters and Norway has disappeared, and that about ­fishing banks to tidal areas along the 40 % has been lost along parts of the North coast. Different habitats provide food Sea coast (Rogaland and Hordaland). and shelter for everything from the Only 3 % (88 species) of the threatened ­largest whales to the smallest zooplank- and near-threatened species on the 2010 ton species. Many seabirds feed largely Norwegian Red List are marine plants on fish, and the location of their largest and animals. They include dwarf eelgrass breeding colonies depends to a large (Zostera noltei) the shrimp Sclerocrangon extent on where food supplies are most ferox, European flat oyster (Ostrea plentiful. Seabirds are an important edulis), European eel (Anguilla anguilla), ­element of coastal and marine ecosys- golden redfish (Sebastes marinus) and tems, and are good indicators of the state basking shark (Cetorhinus maximus). of the marine environment. A number of Threatened seabirds include the kittiwake seabird populations along the Norwegian (Rissa tridactyla), common guillemot, puf- coast have declined so steeply that scien- fin and common tern (Sterna hirundo). tists are very concerned. The common Typical coastal species include the grey guillemot (Uria aalge), for instance, is seal (Halichoerus grypus) and common classified as critically endangered on the seal (Phoca vitulina), and coastal cod 2010 Norwegian Red List. The situation and various other fish species that use is now so serious that it is only a question kelp forests and other coastal habitats of time before it disappears as a breeding as spawning grounds and nursery areas. species from many colonies along the Various types of seaweeds, barnacles and Norwegian coast. many other invertebrates are also found Kelps, corals and sponges support in this zone. About 13 % (485 species) species-rich communities of plants and of the threatened and near-threatened animals in the coastal zone and on the species on the Norwegian Red List are continental shelf. These species grow into associated with the coastal zone. Insects complex structures that offer suitable and other small animals dominate the list, conditions for a wide variety of small but there are also 79 threatened species species – and these in turn serve as food of flowering plants. These include musk ————————— for fish and seabirds. We know relatively orchid (Herminium monorchis), northern Nature Index results little about the overall status of these marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza purpurella) habitat-forming species, but we do know and yellow horned poppy (Glaucium For benthic species, the state of biodi- that coral reefs, sponge communities and flavum). Threatened insect species versity is better in the deep Norwegian kelp forests are very vulnerable to bottom include a butterfly, the chequered blue Sea than in the shallower Barents Sea, fishing gear such as trawls. (Scolitantides orion), and the hairy-legged North Sea and Skagerrak. For pelagic Kelps (Laminaria hyperborea and sugar mining bee (Dasypoda hirtipes). species, the situation is best in the kelp, Saccharina latissima) grow in dense The 2011 Norwegian Red List for Barents Sea (Nature Index value 0.76) stands called kelp forests all along the Ecosystems and Habitat Types distin- and somewhat poorer in the Norwe- Norwegian coast. It is not unusual to find guishes between deep-water and shallow- gian Sea (0.68) and North Sea (0.62). up to 100 different species associated with water marine habitats. Deep-water marine The poorest results were obtained in a single kelp plant. Laminaria hyperborea habitats on the list include coral reefs and the Skagerrak (0.49). has declined because of overgrazing by mud volcanoes, both of which are classi-

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Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 7 National targets

– Living seas and coastal environ- ments fied as vulnerable, while in shallow wa- Water Management Regulations. Both ters, sugar kelp forests in the Skagerrak these management regimes are based 1.1. The structure, functioning, productivity and the North Sea are listed as endan- on the principles of conservation and and diversity of marine ecosystems will gered and vulnerable respectively. Seven sustainable use. be maintained or restored and they will habitats in the coastal zone, including A sound knowledge base is essential for provide a basis for value creation through sand dune systems and tidal meadows, managing marine and coastal ecosystems the sustainable use of natural resources and ecosystem services. are also on the Red List. So far, no marine and is therefore a key factor in preparing, species have been designated as priority implementing and updating the manage- 1.2. All coastal waters will have at least good species under the Nature Diversity Act, ment plans. A great deal of recent infor- ecological and chemical status or, if appro- nor have any marine habitats been desig- mation on the marine environment has priate, good ecological potential, by 2021. nated as selected habitat types. been obtained through the MAREANO The waters off Svalbard and the programme for mapping of the seabed 1.3. Management of all harvested stocks of coastal zone of the archipelago support and the SEAPOP programme for mapping fish, invertebrates and seaweeds will large numbers of seabirds, and various and monitoring of seabirds. Norway is be ecosystem-based, and they will be ­harvested sustainably. mammals including several seal species, also monitoring ocean acidification, for walrus, polar bear (Ursus maritimus) and example as part of the Marine Pollution 1.4. The extinction of threatened marine Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus). There are Monitoring Programme. ­species will be halted and the status of close links between marine ecosystems, Harvesting is the pressure that has ­declining species will be improved by the drift ice and coastal ecosystems in most effect on fish and marine mammals. 2020. Svalbard. Seabirds and mammals use At present the most important commer- both land and ice-covered areas of sea cial fish stocks, such as capelin, herring 1.5. The most seriously threatened habitat for foraging and reproduction. and cod, are being harvested within safe types will be classified as selected habitat biological limits. Fishing pressure on types. Scaling up monitoring and certain smaller stocks such as blue ling, 1.6. A representative selection of Norwegian ­mapping programmes golden redfish and beaked redfish has nature in areas covered by the geo­ All kinds of human activities affect been too high, and steps must be taken graphical scope of the Nature Diversity Act Norway’s seas and coastal ecosystems. to build them up again. will be protected for future generations. Pressures include fisheries, shipping Norway has a special responsibility and oil and gas production, and runoff of for the management of several seabird 1.7. The conservation value of marine nutrients and other pollutants from land. species, including a number of popu­ ­protected areas will be maintained or Long-range transboundary pollution is an lations that are declining rapidly. A group restored. example of an external pressure. Another of experts has been appointed to look 1.8. By 2015, the cumulative effects ofhuman ­ is climate change, which results in rising into the links between this decline and activities on coral reefs and other vulner- sea temperatures, melting sea ice and the availability of prey species, and make able ecosystems that are affected by ocean acidification. Climate change may proposals for action. ­climate change or ocean acidification have serious impacts on certain key spe- The management plans identify particu- will be minimised, in order to maintain cies and species communities, particularly larly valuable and vulnerable areas, where ecosystem functioning as fully as possible. in northern waters and in Svalbard. special care should be taken to avoid

1.9. The most seriously threatened species will Norway’s sea areas are now being ­disruption. For instance, the framework be classified as priority species. managed on the basis of the integrated for oil and gas activities is designed to management plans for the Barents Sea– safeguard these areas, and this is one 1.10. Substantial adverse impacts on biological Lofoten area and the Norwegian Sea. reason why waters off the Lofoten and or landscape diversity in connection with A similar management plan for the North Vesterålen Islands and Senja and near the the import and release of alien organisms Sea and Skagerrak is being prepared coast of Møre og Romsdal county have not will be avoided. Eradication, containment and will be completed in 2013. Internal been opened for petroleum activities. Oil waters (inside the baselines) are managed pollution can arise during normal activities together with river systems under the (operational discharges) or as a ­result of

8 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets accidents (spills from offshore installa- been adopted. They divide the country tions, shipping or onshore sources). Oil into different zones, and require local au- or control measures will be initiated or spills can endanger threatened species thorities to enforce the general prohibition­ implemented for particularly invasive alien and habitats. Norway has zero-discharge most strictly in densely populated areas organisms that are already established in targets for the oil and gas industry, which that are under most pressure. Aquaculture the Norwegian environment. state that as a general rule, there must be in the coastal zone can also have negative no discharges of oil or environmentally environmental impacts: for example, wild 1.11. Genetically modified organisms that are hazardous substances to the sea. If com- fish may become infected with salmon deliberately released, cf the Gene Techno­ logy Act, will not have adverse impacts on panies are drilling in areas where there lice, escaped fish may interbreed­ with wild biodiversity. are corals or other vulnerable benthic fish, and there may be pollution from fish organisms, even stricter conditions apply farms. Monitoring of pollutants from fish 1.12. Norwegian inputs of nutrients and to prevent damage to the fauna. farms is being intensified. ­particulate matter to coastal waters Pollution is still a serious problem in One important tool of an integrated that are affected by eutrophication or many coastal waters and fjords, even policy for the marine environment and sediment deposition will be reduced to though much has been done to reduce of ecosystem-based management is the a level that ensures good chemical and pollution. In the Arctic, the main problems establishment of marine protected areas. ecological status by 2021. are related to persistent, bioaccumulative Norway has undertaken inter­national 1.13. Operational discharges will not result in and toxic substances that are transported commitments in this area under the damage to health or the environment, over long distances with ocean currents Convention on Biological Diversity and the or result in a rise in background levels and in the atmosphere. These problems OSPAR Convention for the protection of of oil or other environmentally hazardous can only be resolved through internatio­ the marine environment of the North-East substances in the long term. nal cooperation. Atlantic, and is in the process of develop- There has been a considerable increase ing a network of marine protected areas. 1.14. A low level of risk of damage to health or the environment as a result of acute in the introduction and spread of alien At present, the coastal zone in Svalbard pollution will be maintained, and species to the marine environment in and the surrounding seas and drift ice ­continuous efforts will be made to reduce recent years. In some cases they are are not much affected by local activity. the level of risk. released accidentally with discharges of As a general rule, the fauna is protected, ballast water, while others are deliber- but limited hunting and trapping of a few 1.15. Municipal, county and regional planning ately and illegally introduced or spread named species is permitted. Most of the will help to prevent undesirable building naturally from neighbouring areas. The coastline and 87 % of Svalbard’s territorial on the shoreline and ensure sustainable use of resources along the coast. Government intends to take steps to waters are protected, and the Svalbard eradicate or control particularly invasive Environmental Protection Act also 1.16. Transport and travel in Svalbard will not alien species that are already established provides safeguards for non-protected cause serious or permanent damage in marine and coastal areas by 2015. The areas. Shrinking sea ice cover is making to the vegetation or disturb animal life. Ballast Water Convention will play an Svalbard’s coastline more and more easily It will be possible to enjoy the natural important role here. It has not yet entered accessible, and it is therefore important ­environment undisturbed by motor ­traffic into force, but Norway has already im- to regulate the growing cruise traffic and noise even in areas that are easily ­accessible from the settlements. plemented its provisions and adopted its and research activity both within and own ballast water regulations. In addition, outside the protected areas. Management 1.17. The current extent of wilderness-like Norway is drawing up an action plan to plans are being drawn up for the pro- ­areas in Svalbard will be retained, combat alien species in Svalbard. tected ­areas, and an action plan is being ­biological and landscape diversity will The greatest threat in the coastal zone prepared for the polar bear population, be maintained virtually untouched by comes from changes in land use – includ- which is particularly vulnerable to the local human activity, and the value of ing all types of building and construction, impacts of climate change. A number of protected areas as reference areas for development and land reclamation. As a other ­species are threatened in Svalbard, research will be safeguarded. general rule, building and construction is including seabirds such as the razorbill not allowed in the 100-metre belt nearest (Alca torda) and ivory gull (Pagophila the shoreline, but despite this, too much eburnea) and marine mammals such as development is still taking place along the bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), the shoreline in a number of areas. To walrus and common seal. However, the improve the situation, central government authorities know too little about popula- planning guidelines for the shoreline have tion trends for many species in Svalbard.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 9 Healthy lakes and rivers

Water is everywhere in the Norwegian landscape, and where would we be without it? Norway is privileged in having abundant supplies of clean fresh water.

Cascading waterfalls, whitewater rapids social development. Rivers were transport of Norway we can drink it straight from and slow-flowing lowland rivers. Wide arteries for timber and other goods; they the source. lakes where the wind whips up the waves supplied fish for the table and water for and hidden tarns in the forest, dark and the crops. Water power has been used to Land of 500 000 lakes mysterious in the summer twilight. From drive machinery and sawmills since long Fresh water covers about five per cent of the mountains to the coast, Norway has before hydroelectricity was even thought the total area of Norway – rivers, streams, an endless variety of lakes and ponds, of, and people have always settled near rivulets, lakes, tarns and ponds. In total, rivers and streams. These river systems rivers. More recently, we have learnt to there are around half a million lakes of support a world of plants and animals, enjoy a wide range of outdoor recreation ­every size, from the smallest pond up- perfectly adapted to their surroundings activities using rivers and lakes. Water is wards. In the northernmost county of Finn- and to each other. Often called the life- in a state of constant change and move- mark alone there are about 180 000 lakes. blood of the planet, rivers transport water ment, and there is always something to As the numbers suggest, most of them are and nutrients and are a vital part of the do – fishing, taking photographs, messing not particularly large. On the other hand, hydrological cycle. about in boats, skating, or damming a some of them are extremely deep. The Rivers and lakes have always played an stream with the children. And last but four deepest lakes in Europe are all in Nor- important part in Norway’s industrial and not least, we drink water – and in much way, and are all deeper than 450 metres.

10 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ————————— Freshwater pearl mussels and dune tiger beetles

Freshwater pearl mussels are one of a small minority of species with a life span of more than 100 years – some individuals may live for up to 200 years. They spend part of their larval stage attached to the gills of trout or salmon. Adult mussels settle in the gravel of the river bed. A large proportion of the European population of this species is found in Norway, and it has been found in rivers in every county. It is an offence to harvest pearl mussels, and the most important reason for its decline today is damage and disturbance to its habitat. The dune tiger beetle is a predatory beetle, 15 millimetres long, that feeds on other insects. In Norway, dune tiger beetles are found almost exclusively on sand and silt banks along the larger rivers. They have been recorded along eight rivers in south-eastern and central Norway and Finnmark. The larvae live in burrows in the sand and catch prey that come within reach, while the adult beetles hunt on the open sand. The most important cause of their decline is physical disturbance of their habitat, such as watercourse regulation, gravel extraction and road construction.

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Other important environmental factors ver is Norway’s largest rodent. It almost in fresh water are currents, temperature died out in Norway around 1900, but is and the substrate on the lake floor or river now relatively common again in southern bed. Flowering plants find suitable condi- and eastern parts of the country. tions where the bottom is soft, consisting A total of 45 species of freshwater fish of fine-grained material such as gravel, have been recorded in Norway, includ- sand, silt or clay. Hardly any of them can ing perch (Perca fluviatilis), pike (Esox grow on solid rock or boulders and coarse lucius) and non-migratory brown trout gravel, which are characteristic of most (Salmo trutta) and Arctic char (Salvelinus river beds. These tend to be dominated alpinus). Most people are familiar with the by mosses and algae, often in large quan- Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), whether tities. The very slippery conditions often they buy it from the shop, farm salmon for found on river beds are caused by dense a living or enjoy the thrills of fly fishing algal growth on rock and boulders. In for wild salmon running the river. Farmed all, 97 species of flowering plants have salmon have been bred from salmon Salmon fishing at the outlet from lake been registered in freshwater habitats in stocks from Norwegian rivers, and wild Fevatnet, Møre og Romsdal Norway. They are far outnumbered by fish can provide the genetic diversity © Svein Magne Fredriksen/Ministry of phytoplankton, the largest group, with needed for further development of the the Environment 1050 registered species. Algae are also a industry. Wild salmon populations have very varied group, and about 900 species declined all over Europe, and Norway is have been recorded. now a stronghold of the species – about Approximately 2 800 animal species in one third of all wild Atlantic salmon breed The flora and fauna of lakes and rivers Norway spend all or part of their life cycle in Norwegian rivers. The world’s most varies widely. Two of the most important in fresh water. They include fish, amphib- productive salmon river is the Tana river factors are whether the water is hard or ians, insects, crustaceans, a wide variety in Finnmark. All this means that Norway soft (high or low calcium content) and the of zooplankton and certain mammals. has a special responsibility to safeguard acidity level (pH). As a general rule, hard Insects and crustaceans are the dominant salmon stocks. water supports a wider variety of species groups: crustaceans are entirely aquatic, Freshwater habitats are also important than softer water, although there are often but many insects lay their eggs in water foraging and breeding areas for about relatively few species of aquatic plants in and have aquatic larvae. 80 of Norway’s bird species, including calcareous lakes. Two very different mammal species are ducks, geese, grey heron (Ardea cinerea) Lakes above the treeline in the highly dependent on fresh water – beaver and common crane (Grus grus). ­mountains are generally relatively poor (Castor fiber) and otter (Lutra lutra). About 7 % of Norway’s red-listed in nutrients. In addition, the growing The otter is a predator, a fast and agile species are associated with freshwater season is of course short, and species swimmer that hunts fish and can also live habitats. There are 20 species of stone- diversity is low. But as anyone who has in the sea. However, it needs fresh water worts (Characeae) in Norway, 17 of fished in mountain lakes knows, numbers to drink and to clean salt from its fur, and which are considered to be threatened. of fish may be very high. therefore needs access to rivers. The bea- They are largely restricted to calcareous

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 11 National targets

– Healthy lakes and rivers lakes. Four of Norway’s six amphibians and many of its dragonfly species are on the 2010 Red List. Other threatened 2.1. The extinction of threatened freshwater fresh­water species include star duck- species will be halted and the status of weed (Lemna trisulca), slender naiad To ensure an integrated planning ­declining species will be improved by (Najas flexilis), shining ram’s-horn snail system for all water bodies from mountain 2020. (Segmentina nitida), noble crayfish top to fjord, Norway has been divided

2.2. All water bodies will have at least good (Astacus astacus), pool frog (Rana into 16 river basin districts. River basin ecological and chemical status or, if appro- lessonae), dune tiger beetle (Cicindela management plans are being drawn up, priate, good ecological potential, by 2021. maritima), freshwater pearl mussel one for each district. All environmental (Margaritifera margaritifera) and north- pressures will be considered together in 2.3. There will be no downgrading of the ern crested newt (Triturus cristatus). the plans, so that it is possible to choose status of any water body as a result of The wild salmon is not threatened the most cost-effective ways of improving an increase in inputs of nutrients or as a species, but the number of salmon environmental status. ­particulate matter from new activity, cf stocks has declined considerably. About Norway is keeping to the EU timetable the requirements of the Water Manage- ment Regulations. 45 Norwegian salmon stocks are now on a voluntary basis, and has established ­extinct, and one third of the 440 remain- management plans for about 20 % of all 2.4. Management of all harvested stocks ing stocks are considered to be threat- its water bodies. These are now being of freshwater animals and plants will ened. The otter is classified as vulnerable. put into practice. The remaining manage- be ­ecosystem-based, and they will be The 2011 Norwegian Red List for ment plans are to be completed by 2015. ­harvested sustainably, so that they are Ecosystems and Habitat Types includes They will provide guidelines for local found in viable populations in their seven habitat types, two of which are soft and national planning and action by the ­natural ranges by 2020. oligotrophic lakes (poor in nutrients and authorities, and will be used to ensure 2.5. The most seriously threatened habitat calcium, and with very clear water) and that environmental status is improved types will be classified as selected habitat calcareous lakes (which are very unusual where necessary and maintained where types. in Norway, where there is little calcium it is already satisfactory. in the bedrock). The latter are included Norway also has a Protection Plan for 2.6. Protection of river systems will be in the first list of selected habitat types Watercourses, under which 388 river ­maintained and a representative ­under the Nature Diversity Act. This systems have been protected against ­selection of Norwegian lakes and rivers will be ­protected for future generations. means that special care must be taken hydropower development. However, to avoid their loss or habitat deterioration, 15 of Norway’s 20 highest waterfalls 2.7. The conservation value of protected areas and an action plan has been drawn up de- have already been regulated, and there will be maintained or restored. scribing how they are to be safeguarded. are plans for widespread construction of small-scale power plants, which would 2.8. The most seriously threatened fresh­ Integrated water management leave more dry waterfalls and stream water species will be classified as priority Almost half of Norway’s lakes and ­rivers beds. Applications for hydropower devel- species. are at risk of failing to achieve good opments are processed by the Norwegian 2.9. Wild salmon stocks, including their ecological and chemical status or better Water Resources and Energy Directorate, ­genetic diversity, will be safeguarded so by 2021. This is the objective set out in together with the municipalities. The that they are found in viable populations the national Water Management Regu­ municipalities are responsible for dealing in their natural distribution areas. lations, which are based very closely on with proposals for other types of develop- the EU Water Framework Directive. The ments in the 100-metre belt nearest rivers most important pressures on Norway’s and lakes. river systems are runoff from agriculture, hydropower developments and long-range Safeguarding wild salmon transboundary pollution. Integrated, eco- Fish farming is the greatest overall prob- system-based management and ­planning lem for wild salmon, through infection is the most effective way of improving the with sea lice (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) situation. and escapes of farmed fish. Sea lice are

12 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein of the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry

————————— High Nature Index ­values for freshwater The Nature Index shows that the overall state of biodiversity in ­freshwater is good, with an index value of 0.78, and that conditions have improved since 1990.

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also a serious problem for a number of organisms to garden ponds. There disturbance to its habitat. of sea trout populations. In freshwater will also be provisions on the cleaning The dune tiger beetle is a predatory habitats, hydropower and other develop- and treatment of fishing gear, boats and beetle, 15 millimetres long, that feeds ments and the salmon parasite Gyrodac- other equipment. Action against problem on other insects. In Norway, dune tiger tylus salaris are the greatest threats to species (both native and non-native) will beetles are found almost exclusively wild salmon. Liming of rivers and lakes continue. In freshwater habitats, these on sand and silt banks along the larger has reduced the problems caused by acid include Gyrodactylus, crayfish plague rivers. They have been recorded along rain, but must be maintained to safeguard (Aphanomyces astaci), which has been eight rivers in south-eastern and central salmon stocks that have been re-estab- ­introduced with the North American Norway and Finnmark. The larvae live lished. An effective campaign against signal crayfish, and bulbous rush in burrows in the sand and catch prey Gyrodactylus has eradicated the parasite (Juncus bulbosus). Bulbous rush is a that come within reach, while the adult from about 20 river systems. ­native ­species, but has spread explosively beetles hunt on the open sand. The most One of the main steps taken to in parts of Norway in recent years. important cause of their decline is physi- safeguard wild salmon is the establish- Most rivers and lakes in Svalbard are cal disturbance of their habitat, such as ment of a system of 52 national salmon within the national parks and nature watercourse regulation, gravel extraction rivers and 29 national salmon fjords. ­reserves, and are under little pressure and road construction. This is intended to give some of the from human activity. Landlocked Arctic most ­important ­salmon stocks special char are the only freshwater fish in protection against developments and Svalbard, and are found in about 100 lakes 2.10. Substantial adverse impacts on biological activities that could ­disrupt their fresh- and rivers. In some river systems, popu­ or landscape diversity in connection with water habitats, and against fish farming, lations are still considerably depleted as the import and release of alien organisms pollution and physical disturbance in a result of earlier overfishing. The content will be avoided. Eradication, containment fjords and coastal waters near the mouths of PCBs in Arctic char from Bjørnøya is or control measures will be initiated or of these rivers. The system targets stocks so high (the highest ever measured in the implemented for particularly invasive alien with special features (large numbers of Arctic) that people are advised not to eat organisms that are already established in the Norwegian environment. salmon; high productivity or a potential large fish. More knowledge is needed as for high ­productivity; stocks with distinc- a basis for managing the Arctic char popu­ 2.11. Genetically modified organisms that tive ­genetic features, such as particularly lations in Svalbard. are deliberately released, cf the Gene large or small fish size). ­Technology Act, will not have adverse Plants and fish that are not native to Freshwater pearl mussels and dune impacts on biodiversity. a river or lake can be a serious threat to tiger beetles the ecosystem. They may compete for Freshwater pearl mussels are one of a 2.12. Norwegian inputs of nutrients and ­particulate matter to lakes and rivers the same food as indigenous species or small minority of species with a life span that are affected by eutrophication or carry dangerous diseases. An action plan of more than 100 years – some individuals sediment deposition will be reduced to against alien fish species is being pre- may live for up to 200 years. They spend a level that ensures good chemical and pared, and several counties are drawing part of their larval stage attached to the ecological status by 2021. up regional action plans targeting their gills of trout or salmon. Adult mussels specific problems. New regulations are ­settle in the gravel of the river bed. A 2.13. Municipal, county and regional being drawn up on the import and release large proportion of the European popu­ ­planning will help to prevent undesir- of alien organisms, and will become lation of this species is found in Norway, able building in the 100-metre belt along ­rivers and lakes. ­effective in 2013. They will include rules and it has been found in rivers in every on the release of fish outside their natural county. It is an offence to harvest pearl distribution range, the import of animals mussels, and the most important rea- and plants for aquaria, and the release son for its decline today is damage and

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 13 Rich and varied wetlands

Did you know that wetlands are some of the most productive ecosystems in the world? There are wetlands of different kinds in every corner of Norway, and 51 of them are considered to be of international importance.

The variety of wetlands in Norway is variety of animals and plants, and a feast they can tell us a great deal about the greater than almost anywhere else in for hungry birds. climate, fauna and flora of earlier times. Europe. Wetlands are vital but often Many wetlands, particularly peatlands, Until now, we have not properly appre- undervalued systems – they purify water, act like sponges and can absorb large vol- ciated the value of our wetlands, either in provide natural flood control, are attrac- umes of water. This means that they soak Norway or in the rest of the world. They tive recreational areas and support a rich up rainfall and protect against destructive are being lost more quickly than other bird life. We must make sure they are not flooding, and then release water slowly, types of ecosystems, and are now among mismanaged or destroyed and maintain acting as water storage reservoirs in dry the world’s most seriously threatened them so that we can continue to enjoy periods. They also have a unique capacity ­areas. To safeguard wetlands for the fu- these benefits. to purify water. They lock up large quanti- ture, we must make people more aware of Wetlands are the many different ties of carbon, and draining and developing just how important they are for all of us. habitat types in the transitional zone peatlands releases this as carbon dioxide. between land and water, from estuaries Peatlands can also act as a natural archive, Hungry sundew and ingenious and lowland marshes to upland bogs. preserving seeds, pollen and remains of mosses They include some of the most produc- plants and animals at different depths in About 10 % of mainland Norway is tive ecosystems in the world, with a huge the oxygen-free environment. This means ­covered by wetlands, mostly peatland

14 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Kim Abel/Naturarkivet.no©Kim

– bogs or mires. The Norwegian Nature oxygen, for example sundews (Drosera) Index divides Norway’s wetlands into and butterworts (Pinguicula). These mires, springs and floodplains, including ­species are also carnivorous: they catch river deltas. Mires and springs are both and digest small insects, and this allows habitat types where the water table is them to survive the nutrient-poor condi- high, either all year round or at certain tions. times of year. The species we find here The number of plant species varies are adapted to living in areas where the widely from one type of bog to another. soil is saturated with water. Floodplains Rain-fed (ombrotrophic) bogs are very along rivers and lakes are regularly poor in nutrients, and may only support ­flooded and constantly changing as the around 20 species of flowering plants: water erodes away material in some areas mineral-rich bogs, on the other hand, and deposits silt and sand elsewhere. may support as many as 200 species. Mires are divided into a number of The insect life of bogs and fens is different types, but all of them have a ­particularly rich. The most striking high water table, so that the soil is more ­species are butterflies and dragonflies, or less saturated with water and oxygen particularly the hawker dragonflies levels are low except very close to the (Aeshna), which are some of Norway’s surface. Many species would be unable to largest insects and can often be seen survive under these conditions, but a wide patrolling their territories in summer. variety of plants and animals have evolved The upper layer and surface of the peat specialised features that allow them to also support many insects, including large thrive here. Species diversity is high in numbers of beetle species, and in addition the surface layers of the peat. many different spiders. Where the water For example, 47 of the 50 European is not too acidic, frogs and newts live species of sphagnum mosses occur in in open water and pools. Wetlands also Norwegian bogs. These mosses are support a characteristic bird fauna. Many specifically adapted to the waterlogged species of waders depend on wetlands, conditions. The tips of their shoots grow but there are also geese, ducks, rails and rapidly, while the plant dies from below. some passerines. They use wetlands as Much of the peat that builds up below breeding sites and as staging areas during the living plants on the surface of the bog migration. Some also use them as winter- is formed from dead sphagnum mosses. ing and moulting areas. Springs cover only a small area, and ————————— are supplied by oxygen-rich groundwater. Nature Index: moderate They have a characteristic flora including three-flowered rush (Juncus triglumis), scores for wetlands yellow saxifrage (Saxifraga aizoides) and According to the Norwegian Nature many different mosses. There are fewer Index, the state of wetland biodiversity species of animals, but insects found in is only moderate, with an overall index and around springs include chironomid value of 0.55. midges, mayflies, stoneflies and diving beetles. ————————— Today, relatively little peatland is being lost in Norway through drainage and Many of the flowering plants that grow on conversion into farmland. However, these bogs have air-filled stem and root ­tissues, processes have previously caused a great for example many species of sedges deal of damage, and most of the areas that (Carex), cotton grass (Eriophorum) and have been lost cannot be restored. About bogbean (Menyanthes trifoliata). Other 15 % (443 species) of Norway’s threatened plants survive the conditions by living species are associated with wetlands. near the surface where there is plenty of Most of the plant species on the 2010

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 15 National targets

– Rich and varied wetlands

3.1. The extinction of threatened wetland ­species will be halted and the status of ­declining species will be improved by 2020.

3.2 The diversity of natural wetland types Norwegian Red List grow on nutrient-rich Ramsar Convention. Three of these are will be maintained or restored within bogs. They include Hudson Bay sedge Stabbursneset in Finnmark (part of a their ­natural range, so that there are ­viable (Carex heleonastes), marsh helleborine river delta), Nordre Øyeren in Akershus ­populations of all wetland species. (Epipactis palustris), white adder’s- ­(Norway’s largest inland delta) and Åkers- Genetic diversity and important ecological mouth orchid (Malaxis monophyllos) and vika in Hedmark (permanent freshwater functions and services will be maintained. slender green feather-moss Hamatocaulis and marsh and seasonally flooded areas vernicosus. near Lake Mjøsa). 3.3. The most seriously threatened wetland Wetlands are important breeding The lesser white-fronted goose and the habitat types will be classified as selected habitat types. grounds for several Norwegian bird black-tailed godwit have been designated ­species that are listed on the international as priority species under the Nature 3.4. The most seriously threatened wetland IUCN Red List: the lesser white-fronted Diversity Act, while mires traditionally species will be classified as priority goose (Anser erythropus), great snipe used for haymaking have been designated species. (Gallinago media), curlew (Numenius as a selected habitat type, which means arquata) and black-tailed godwit (Limosa that special care must be taken to avoid 3.5. A representative selection of wetlands limosa). The corncrake (Crex crex), moor their loss or habitat deterioration. will be protected for future generations. frog (Rana arvalis) and northern crested 3.6. The conservation value of protected areas newt (Triturus cristatus) are other wet- will be maintained or restored. land species on the Norwegian Red List. ————————— Lesser white-fronted 3.7. Substantial adverse impacts on biological Protection for 600 valuable areas or landscape diversity in connection with Ever since the first farmers began to goose the import and release of alien organisms ­cultivate land in Norway, people have The lesser white-fronted goose is will be avoided. Eradication, containment or control measures will be initiated or used mires and floodplains to graze live- classified as critically endangered in implemented for particularly invasive alien stock and for haymaking – and in some the Norwegian Red List, and is also organisms that are already established in areas of the country, bogs were mown red-listed internationally. Only a the Norwegian environment. for hay until the 1950s. Over many years, hundred years ago, it was a common these forms of traditional use create semi- sight in Norway, from Nord-Trøndelag 3.8. Municipal, county and regional planning natural vegetation types that include a county and northwards. But from the will help to prevent undesirable develop- wide variety of light-demanding species, early 1900s, intensive hunting led to ment in wetlands. many of which are now threatened. The a dramatic reduction in the popula- 2011 Norwegian Red List for Ecosystems tion. Nowadays, illegal hunting along and Habitat Types includes 16 wetland migration routes is a threat to the small habitat types. Many of the most valuable remaining number of geese. In May remaining wetland areas have now been 2011, the lesser white-fronted goose protected under the Nature Diversity Act, was designated as a priority species or before that, under the Nature Conser- under the Nature Diversity Act, and vation Act. County conservation plans for there is also an international action wetlands have resulted in the establish- plan to save the species. The foun- ment of more than 600 nature reserves. dation Nordens Ark has hatched and The protected areas include 51 wetland released goslings, and steps have been systems that are on the list of wetlands taken to reduce the red fox population of international importance under the on the breeding grounds in Finnmark in the far north of Norway.

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16 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

Wetlands have been under great ­pressure for many years, both in Norway and in the rest of the world. Many have been damaged or destroyed. Changes in land use, for example road construction, drainage and hydropower developments, are the main threat to 85 % of the threat- ened species that are associated with wetlands. At least one third of the original area of mire under the treeline in Norway has been converted to agricultural land or developed, and numbers of many species associated with floodplains have dropped as a result of hydropower developments. Norway seeks to safeguard wetlands through conservation and sustainable use. This is being done by ensuring that protected areas include a representative selection of all types of wetlands. More wetland habitat types may also be ­designated as selected habitat types. The municipalities have the primary responsibility for land-use planning in areas with islands and skerries. These ————————— Norway, and therefore also have an areas are very valuable for migratory A tiny carnivore important role to play in maintaining geese, ducks and waders. On the whole, wetlands. Management plans are being wetlands in Svalbard are not much Sundews (Drosera) are fascinating little drawn up for the 600 wetland nature ­affected by human activities and land plants that grow on nutrient-poor bogs. reserves. In many other wetlands, resto­ use change. Many of the most important They make up for a shortage of nitrogen ration work is needed to remedy earlier areas are within the nature reserves and by catching insects using the sticky damage, and Norway’s goal is to restore national parks, which cover 67 % of the droplets on the tentacles lining their half of them by 2020. Plans are being land area of the archipelago. In June 2011, leaves. Insects that are attracted by the drawn up for this work. The authorities four areas (Bjørnøya, Hopen, Sørkapp scent of the plant are caught by the are also providing information to raise and Nordenskiöldkysten) were listed as tentacles, enveloped and then gradually public awareness of the importance of Ramsar sites. Five smaller areas were digested so that the plant can absorb wetlands, especially through the infor­ already on the Ramsar list. All the Ramsar the nitrogen. Brutal perhaps, but mation centres for national parks and sites in Svalbard are protected under the ingenious. There are three different other areas. Svalbard Environmental Protection Act. sundew species in Norway, and all of In Svalbard, wetlands make up a large them grow on bogs. proportion of the tundra in ice-free ­valleys and the coastal plains. They include moss ————————— tundra and other wet tundra types, lakes, river plains, deltas and shallow coastal

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 17 Forest diversity

If you want to find birds and mammals in the wild in Norway, our forests are the places to visit. But these mysterious and diverse landscapes are also home to a vast number of other living things.

Deep in the forests there are dark, quiet our forbears believed in trolls and other An endless variety of plants spaces where the forest floor is carpeted mystical beings. Although much of the and animals with green moss. You can pick berries old-growth forest has gone, we can still Forests cover about 130 000 square and mushrooms to your heart’s content. experience the peace and beauty of the kilometres of Norway, or one third of There are shady hollows where the trees forest and, for the artistically inclined, the area of the mainland. Productive stand close together, but on hilltops find inspiration for paintings, music or forest – meaning forested areas that can where the soil is shallow a view will literature. produce at least one cubic metre of timber ­suddenly open up between the ­scattered Forests have also been a vital part per hectare per year – covers about 75 000 trees. Where the trees are tall, the forest of the economy throughout Norway’s square kilometres. is dim and full of secrets, with lichens history, providing food, fuel and building The altitude of the treeline differs hanging from every branch. Moss ­covers materials. Norway was already exporting greatly from one part of the country to the tree stumps and the wind sings timber by the 1300s. Forestry and wood another, depending on the climate. In through the tree-tops. It’s not surprising processing are still major industries Finnmark in the far north, it descends that Norwegian poets and artists have today and make an important contribution all the way to sea level, whereas in some often sought inspiration in the forest. to the local, regional and national ­­eco­- inland areas in the south it is as high as Even today, it is easy to understand why nomy. 1200 metres. Norway’s forest landscapes

18 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein of the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry

are less broken up by agriculture and to reduce the negative impacts of logging settlements than in many other European and afforestation, but the ecological countries because there are only state of many forest areas is so poor that ­relatively small areas that are suitable close monitoring of developments is for farming. needed. About 1840 species, or 50 % of Forest and mountain are the most wide- all threatened or near-threatened species spread main ecosystem types in Norway. in Norway, are associated with forests. Trees provide a particularly wide range of Some examples are the orchid red helle- structures, habitats and three-dimensional borine (Cephalanthera rubra), the lichen environmental variation, so that forests Usnea longissima, a number of fungi can support more species than other and mosses, and various species of flies. ecosystems. Tree crowns, tree trunks Threatened mammal species associated and branches each support distinctive with forests include brown bear (Ursus communities, and dead trees form new arctos), wolf (Canis lupus) and two habitats. Standing and fallen dead wood species of bats, barbastelle (Barbastella is broken down and recycled by a large barbastellus) and Natterer’s bat (Myotis number of species from many different nattereri). Where the eagle owl (Bubo groups. These features explain why 60 % bubo) – which is listed as endangered – is of all species registered in Norway are found in inland areas, it generally nests in associated with forests. forested areas. There are 19 forest habitat Forests are divided into two main types, types on the 2011 Norwegian Red List coniferous and broad-leaved, but mixed for Ecosystems and Habitat Types. They forests are also common. Norwegian include coastal spruce forest, coastal pine coniferous forests are dominated by forest, ultramafic forest and calcareous Norway spruce (Picea abies) and Scots lime forest. pine (Pinus sylvestris). Scots pine grows The most species-rich groups in forests best on dry, nutrient-poor soils, and pine are arthropods (particularly insects and forests are therefore found mainly on arachnids), fungi, lichens and mosses. sandy moraines and dry ridges, especially The animal groups most people are ————————— in inland areas of southern Norway where familiar with, such as birds and mam- Low Nature Index rainfall is relatively low. Spruce prefers mals, make up less than one per cent of deep soil and plenty of water. The most all forest species. Many different species ­values for forest widespread type of broad-leaved forest is of fungi make the nutrients in dead plant In 2010, the state of biodiversity boreal (northern), dominated by aspen material available to other species by in forest was found to be relatively (Populus tremula), birch (Betula), rowan breaking down cellulose and lignin. There poor (overall Nature Index value 0.43). (Sorbus aucuparia), goat willow (Salix are huge quantities of fungi in forests, but The lowest figures were recorded for caprea) and grey alder (Alnus incana), mostly hidden underground and inside Central Norway and Hedmark county. and often mixed with coniferous for- dead wood and other plant material, est. Temperate broad-leaved forest is in the form of mycelium, a network of ————————— dominated by tree species that prefer a microscopic filaments called hyphae. We warmer climate, such as oak (Quercus) do not become aware of them until they ash (Fraxinus excelsior), hazel (Corylus form fruiting bodies – mushrooms and ­avellana), black alder (Alnus incana), toadstools on the ground and bracket small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata) and fungi on trees. beech (Fagus sylvatica). This type of Many Norwegian forests also support a forest is found mainly near the coast in wide variety of lichens and mosses thanks southern and western Norway. Mountain to their geographical situation near the birch (Betula pubescens ssp tortuosa) coast and plentiful rainfall. These plants generally forms a belt between the lack a root system, and absorb nutrients coniferous forest and the tree limit in directly from surface water. Mosses and the mountains. lichens are the dominant vegetation on Since the 1990s, steps have been taken surfaces where there is no soil, such as

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 19 National targets

– Forest diversity

4.1. The extinction of threatened forest species will be halted and the status of declining boulders, rock and tree trunks, where “teenagers”, when they are about 80 species will be improved by 2020. they do not need to compete for space years old. Since the 1990s, the forestry with flowering plants. The flowering industry has taken steps to improve 4.2. The diversity of habitat types in forests will be maintained or restored within their plants that thrive in coniferous forests its ­environmental performance, for natural range, so that there are viable ­include various species of the heath ­example by ­leaving more dead wood in populations of all indigenous species. ­family (Ericaceae), including purple place, which benefits a wide range of Genetic diversity and important ecological heather (Calluna vulgaris), bilberry ­species. Never­theless, much remains functions and services will be maintained. (Vaccinium myrtillus) and cowberry to be done. ­According to the 2010 (Vaccinium ­vitis-idaea). In broad-leaved ­Norwegian Red List for Species, more 4.3. Management of all harvested stocks of forests, Hepatica nobilis, wood anemone than 1400 threatened and near-threatened forest animals and plants will be (Anemone nemorosa), wood sorrel species associated with forests are being ecosystem-based, and they will be harvested sustainably, so that they are (Oxalis acetosella) and grasses such negatively affected by forestry. Logging found in viable populations in their as wood fescue (Festuca altissima) are has negative impacts on many species, natural ranges by 2020. ­common species. as do planting of non-native tree species Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), mice and the construction of forest roads. In 4.4. All forestry areas will be sustainably and voles, red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) a number of cases, timber has been cut managed by 2020. and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) are the in key biotopes or areas of high conser­ forest mammals you are most likely to vation value. For many years, the forestry 4.5. There will be 65 litters of lynx, 13 litters of brown bear and 3 litters of wolf a year, and encounter. If you are lucky enough to industry has planted alien tree species or 850–1200 breeding pairs of golden eagle. actually see Norway’s largest terrestrial trees that are not native to the area (for mammal, the moose (Alces alces), rather example ­Norway spruce along the west 4.6. The most seriously threatened forest than just finding tracks or droppings, coast). Some of these are now spreading habitat types will be classified as selected it will be something you remember for widely and are a threat to the characteris- habitat types. a long time. Upland forests nearer the tic species and habitats of many protected treeline are an important habitat for areas. The construction of new forest 4.7. The most seriously threatened forest species will be classified as priority the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). roads causes fragmentation of habitats species. Three of Norway’s four large carnivores and is one of the main causes of the loss (lynx, brown bear and wolf) are mainly of truly undisturbed areas in Norway 4.8 A representative selection of forest habitat forest dwellers. The lynx, our only wild (“areas without major infrastructure types will be protected for future cat, is elusive and rarely seen, and has ­development”, which are defined as lying generations. always fired the imaginations of northern at least 1 km from the nearest develop- ­peoples. In Norse mythology, the goddess ment, including forest roads). 4.9. The conservation value of protected areas will be maintained or restored. Freya was said to use two lynxes to pull All this makes it important to continue her chariot. and expand forest conservation efforts. About 2.5 % of all productive forest has Protecting areas of national been given strict protection under the ­importance Nature Diversity Act, or before that, The forest landscape in Norway today under the Nature Conservation Act, is strongly influenced by even-aged in nature reserves or national parks. ­management practices, which include Forestry operations are not permitted in clear-cutting and planting of seedlings, these areas. In future, new areas owned and require a network of forest roads. by the state, the church and individuals Norway spruce can live for up to 500 will be protected. Areas in private owner- years and Scots pine for 700–800 years, ship will as far as possible be protected on but they are logged commercially as a voluntary basis. Important forest types

20 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

————————— Brown bear

Until the 1600s, there were brown bears throughout Norway and Sweden. It is estimated that there were still about 5 000 bears in the mid-1800s, about 65 % of them in Norway. The counties of Sogn og Fjordane, Møre og Romsdal, Tele- mark and Aust-Agder were the strongholds of the species. In the 19th century, both Norway and Sweden introduced bounty systems for bears that proved to be highly effective. Sweden abolished its system in 1893, and in Norway the central government stopped paying bounties in 1930. When the population decline finally stopped around 1930, there were only about 130 brown bears left in Norway and Sweden. In Norway, local bounty payments were made right up to 1972, but from 1973 bears have been strictly protected. Despite this, the brown bear became extinct as a breeding species in Norway during the 1980s. Since then, the Norwegian-Swedish population has gradually risen, and bears now range across much of central and northern Sweden. The Norwegian distribution reflects the situation in Sweden, and the distribution of female bears in Norway is closely related to the distribution of breeding females in Sweden. The Swedish population was estimated at 3 300 bears in 2008, and 151 individuals were identified in Norway in 2011.

————————— are being registered so that the most dual goals of the management regime – to valuable areas can be protected, with a maintain livestock grazing in forested special focus on temperate broad-leaved and other uncultivated areas, and to forests. The red helleborine has been maintain populations of all four carnivores designated as a priority species under the and golden eagle. There will be a clear Nature Diversity Act, and lime forest on ­division into zones where the carnivores calcareous soils as a selected habitat type. are given priority and others where 4.10. Substantial adverse impacts on biological More forest species and habitats may be livestock have priority. In areas where the or landscape diversity in connection with designated as this work continues. carnivores are given priority, the aim is to the import and release of alien organisms will be avoided. Eradication, containment Habitat types are gradually being achieve the population targets (number of or control measures will be initiated or mapped throughout Norway. Forests litters per year). implemented for particularly invasive alien are being given priority in this work as The Government will take steps to organisms that are already established in so many threatened species and habitat safeguard the eagle owl, in particular to the Norwegian environment. types are to be found there. The removal avoid mortality as a result of electrocution of non-native tree species, for example and collisions with power lines. 4.11. Genetically modified organisms that from nature reserves in forest, will be The Norwegian authorities have not are deliberately released, cf the Gene ­Technology Act, will not have adverse continued. New regulations regulating so far approved any use of genetically impacts on biodiversity. planting and sowing of non-native tree modified organisms in agriculture or species will be adopted under the Nature any release of such organisms into the Diversity Act. The forestry sector has environment. However, the use of geneti- the main responsibility for controlling cally modified organisms is increasing in the spread of non-native tree species that other countries, and it is therefore impor- have previously been planted. tant to monitor the situation in Norway The Government will amend the legis- through sampling and analysis. lation on forest road construction so that The EU is introducing new legislation areas without infrastructure development to prevent the import of illegally har- are safeguarded, and ensure that admin- vested timber, which will enter into force istrative procedures safeguard areas of in 2013. It is likely to be incorporated importance for biodiversity and areas of into the Agreement on the European high conservation value. Economic Area, and will in that case In 2011, the political parties in the ­apply in Norway as well. The rules Storting (Norwegian parliament) reached require operators to be able to document agreement on management of the four that timber and timber products that large carnivores and golden eagle (Aquila are to be marketed in the EU have been chrysaetos). The agreement retains the legally harvested.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 21 Spectacular mountain landscapes

Norwegians love their mountains – at all times of year, and whatever the weather. The trouble is that such boundless affection can in itself be a threat to the harsh environment, which paradoxically is also very vulnerable.

The clear crisp air. A breeze ruffling landscapes you can feel very small and Traditionally, the most important activities your hair. A wide panorama, peaks and insignificant, but also at one with nature. were hunting, trapping, fishing and other ridges stretching as far as the eye can see. The mountains and fjords are the main forms of harvesting. These are still the ­Rugged ground softened by the growth of ­attractions for many visitors to Norway. basis for local commercial activities today. lichen, moss, heather and willow scrub. Mountain plants and animals are The tradition of outdoor recreation in A tiny lemming that bounces out from adapted to extreme conditions, and it the mountains is a more modern develop- ­behind a rock, spluttering with rage. does not take much to disturb the delicate ment, which is creating more activity and These are the Norwegian mountains, the ­balance that has developed over thousands employment in many rural municipalities. realm of the wild reindeer. You can enjoy of years. Conditions are so difficult that In fact, in many mountain communities, the peace of an undisturbed wilderness, fewer species can survive in the mountains tourism is the sector that generates the listen to the sounds of the wild and enjoy than in the lowlands, but the numbers of most income. The sector includes the use the sight of plants and animals that you each species are often high. of nature and the cultural heritage by travel will not find anywhere else. Many of People have always used the mountains, and tourism companies and diversification Norway’s mountain ranges are rugged and have left many traces behind them, by farmers into tourism-related activities. and dramatic, with precipitous cliffs, deep from ancient pitfall trapping systems to However, more intensive use of mountain valleys and glaciers. In these spectacular old summer farms and abandoned mines. habitats may have adverse effects on

22 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ————————— Variable Nature Index biodiversity, and sound management is therefore essential to ensure that we use ­values in mountain areas these areas sustainably. According to the Nature Index, the overall state of biodiversity in the mountains is Reindeer, ravens and ptarmigan in good (0.69), but poorer in certain areas in the domain of the wolverine the southern half of the country (0.42). Mountains, defined as areas higher than or north of the current treeline, cover ————————— about 30 % of mainland Norway. This does not include the area of rivers and lakes in is dominated by flies, wasps, beetles the mountains. In most parts of Norway, and butterflies. Typical mountain birds mountain birch (Betula pubescens ssp include golden plover (Pluvialis apricaria), tortuosa) is the tree species that grows snow bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis), highest in the mountains and forms the wheatear (Oenanthe oenanthe) and the treeline. Norway has more than 1600 raven (Corvus corax), whose character- glaciers, and steep fjords and valleys cut istic croaking calls make it easy to spot. through the mountain ranges, adding to Hunters tend to dream of finding a flock the beauty of the landscape. of ptarmigan (Lagopus muta). Mountain animals and plants live under Of the threatened and near-threatened extreme conditions. Wind, ice, snow, species on the 2010 Norwegian Red List, wide temperature variations, very dry 158 are associated with the mountains. or wet soils, frost action and the calcium Plants include the locoweed (Oxytropis content of soil and bedrock all affect deflexa ssp. norvegica), the grass Poa plants and animals.­ To cope with the lindebergii, spiked speedwell (Veronica extremes, many organisms have evolved spicata) and upright lousewort (Pedicularis into specialists. For example, a number flammea). Great snipe (Gallinago media) of rare mountain plants have very narrow and snowy owl (Bubo scandiacus) are temperature tolerances­ or require soil two of the red-listed bird species, and with a high calcium­ content. The avail- mammals include Arctic fox (Vulpes A magnificent view from Stetind in the ability of food is a key survival factor for lagopus) and wolverine (Gulo gulo). The Jotunheimen mountains, looking across many mammals and birds. Because they wild reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) is not to the Smørstabb massif. are adapted to extreme­ conditions, many a threatened species, but Norway has a ©Kim Abel/Naturarkivet.no mountain species­ are very vulnerable to special international responsibility for its any additional pressure – they are already management. living close to their tolerance limits. Through its evolutionary history, the The mountain vegetation is dominated wild reindeer has become adapted to the by shrubs, grasses and sedges, mosses harsh conditions found in the mountains, and lichens, with a wider variety of non- especially in winter. Two or three hundred woody plants where the soil is rich in lime. years ago, wild reindeer were found in The depth and distribution of snow cover all mountainous parts of the country, and determines vegetation pattern on a smaller it was still abundant in North Norway scale. There are very marked differences around 1800. Today, the mountains in between wind-blown ridges where little the southern half of Norway are the only snow lies and snowbeds, where snow place in Europe where wild reindeer are cover may persist until well into July and still to be found. There are 23 more or less new snow can begin to accumulate again separate populations. in September or October. Plants that grow According to official figures for 2010–11, in snowbeds must respond quickly and the area used (not exclusively) for reindeer have an effective life cycle, so that they husbandry in Norway totalled 146 000 have time to flower and set seed before square kilometres in 139 different munici- the snow returns. palities. This corresponds to nearly half The insect fauna in the mountains of Norway’s land area. More than 90 % of

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 23 National targets

– Spectacular mountain landscapes

this is within the area where the Reindeer 5.1. The extinction of threatened mountain Husbandry Act, on the basis of imme­ species will be halted and the status of morial rights, grants the Sami population ­declining species will be improved by special rights to graze reindeer (the three 2020. counties of North Norway and parts of

5.2. The diversity of mountain habitat types Central Norway). apartments have been built, and hydro- will be maintained or restored within power developments have changed many their natural range, so that there are ————————— areas. This has negative impacts. For viable populations of all species. Genetic Wild reindeer are example, the migration patterns of wild ­diversity and important ecological reindeer can be disrupted by a road that functions and services will be maintained. adapted to extreme cuts across their migration path or cabins cold that block their route. 5.3. Management of all harvested stocks of Regional management plans for the wild mountain animals and plants will be Wild reindeer can cope with tempera- ecosystem-based, and they will be tures down to 30–40 °C below zero reindeer areas are being drawn up, with harvested sustainably, so that they are without needing to raise their priority being given to those that have found in viable populations in their metabolic rate to keep warm. Their two been designated as national conservation natural ranges by 2020. most important adaptations to cold areas for reindeer. The plans are being are fur covering the entire body – even drawn up in cooperation between the 5.4. Viable populations of wild reindeer will be the muzzle – and the thickness and relevant counties. They divide the wild maintained within the natural range of the insulating properties of the fur. The reindeer areas into different zones for species in the southern half of Norway. outer layer of guard hairs is very dense ­planning purposes. 5.5. There will be 39 litters of wolverine a year. – three times as many hairs per square Few people have ever lived perma- centimetre as in moose and red deer nently in the mountains, but large areas 5.6. The most seriously threatened mountain – and each hair has an insulating have been influenced by summer live- habitat types will be classified as selected air-filled cavity. stock grazing.­ Transhumance used to be habitat types. ­commonly practised in Norway – in 1850, ————————— there were about 50 000 summer farms 5.7. The most seriously threatened mountain species will be classified as priority in Norway. By 2008, only 1 237 of them species. The Norway lemming (Lemmus ­lemmus) were still in use. As a result, semi-natural is the most characteristic of our small vegetation types are declining rapidly in 5.8. A representative selection of mountain rodents. Many walkers in the mountains many areas, whereas other areas are over- habitat types will be protected for future have come to a astonished halt as a tiny grazed. The ecological effects of livestock generations. animal blocks the path right in front of grazing vary depending on the species and them, bouncing up and down and hissing the number of animals. In addition, there 5.9. The conservation value of protected areas will be maintained or restored. and squeaking aggressively. In a lemming is now far less felling and haymaking in year, when the population peaks, they are areas near the treeline. As a result of these 5.10. Substantial adverse impacts on biological everywhere in huge numbers. changes, trees are once more encroaching or landscape diversity in connection with So far, no priority species or selected on these areas. In the long run, they will the import and release of alien organisms habitat types are associated with high- develop into forest dominated by moun- will be avoided. Eradication, containment mountain areas. tain birch, willow (Salix) scrub and other or control measures will be initiated or woody plants. implemented for particularly invasive alien In addition, climate change will bring organisms that are already established in People put pressure on the the Norwegian environment. ­mountain environment higher temperatures and a longer growing In the past 50 years, human activities have season. This is expected to have major been putting more and more pressure on impacts on species that are adapted to mountain areas in Norway. Roads have a mountain environment, and result in been constructed, holiday cabins and changes in species distribution.

24 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

The environment in Svalbard is largely therefore strictly regulated. provide advice and information and ensure undisturbed, but there are nevertheless There are also many protected mountain compliance with environmental legis­ many traces of human activity – left by re- areas in mainland Norway. About 75 % of lation. In some mountain areas, paths are search expeditions, hunters and trappers,­ the total area of national parks is in the constructed to channel visitor traffic away miners and explorers. Nevertheless, mountains, and the corresponding figures from the most vulnerable areas. It is also almost all of Svalbard (98 % of the area) for protected landscapes and nature important to make people more aware of is defined as wilderness-like, meaning reserves are 71 % and 22 % respectively. the vulnerability of mountain ecosystems that it is at least 5 km from major infra- The Government is currently finalising the and provide information about the habitats structure development such as roads national park plan, which will protect the and species they will find there and threats and power lines. And 65 % of the land most valuable areas of Norway for future to the mountain environment. This is done area of the archipelago is protected as generations. When it is complete, about through visitor information centres, signs nature reserves and national parks. Their 27 % of all mountain areas will be protected and information material. management is therefore very important under the Nature Diversity Act. for the state of the mountain and tundra Management of the national parks was ecosystems. The Svalbard environment previously a central government respon- 5.11. Municipal, county and regional planning is highly vulnerable,­ and pressure from sibility, but is now being delegated to the will help to prevent undesirable develop- tourism, outdoor recreation and research local level, and local management boards ment in mountain areas. is increasing. Motor traffic on land causes are being set up. They are responsible noise pollution that may disturb the fauna, for maintaining the conservation value of 5.12. The current extent of wilderness-like areas in Svalbard will be retained, biological and generates air pollution and leaves tracks these areas, on the basis of the national landscape diversity will be maintained that persist for a very long time, and is park management plans. Outside the virtually untouched by local human protected areas, the Planning and Building activity, and the value of protected areas ————————— Act is the most important instrument as reference areas for research will be Arctic fox for maintaining the value of the natural safeguarded. environment­ and landscape in the moun- A number of steps have been taken to tains. For example, it requires a munici­ 5.13. Transport and travel in Svalbard will not cause serious or permanent damage to try to ensure the survival of the Arctic pality that is planning to permit cabins to the vegetation or disturb animal life. It will fox in mainland Norway. In 2011, at be built in an area in the mountains to take be possible to enjoy the natural environ- ­least 270 cubs were born on the into consideration factors such as their ment undisturbed by motor traffic and mainland, almost half of them to foxes location in relation to migration routes for noise even in areas that are easily released by the Arctic fox breeding wild reindeer. accessible from the settlements. programme. The 2010 Norwegian Red The Norwegian Nature Inspectorate List classifies the species as critically plays an important role in safeguarding endangered in mainland Norway (it is species and habitats in the mountains, both not threatened in Svalbard), and only within and outside protected areas. Staff time will show whether it is possible to maintain a viable population perma- nently.

————————— Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 25 A valuable cultural heritage

Rock art created 9 000 years ago. A ski jump from 1950. Fens and bogs that were being used for haymaking before the Black Death reached Norway. A red phone box. They are all part of our cultural heritage. Which of them should we protect for posterity?

For more than 12 000 years, people is vulnerable. Once historical buildings or life. Seeing a real Viking ship or an actual have been living in what is now Norway rock art, hay meadows or burial mounds burial mound is quite different from and leaving physical evidence of their are destroyed or removed, they are lost ­reading about them or looking at images activities behind them. This enables us for ever. on a screen. to piece together how human society All our landscapes, from the most has changed and developed since people densely populated urban areas to appar- Half of Norway protected? arrived in Norway. Traces of our history ently undisturbed mountain and forest, Not even one per cent can be found everywhere – in our towns, bear traces of human occupation. In Historical buildings, urban environments, in our forests, in the mountains, along towns and built-up areas, buildings are archaeological remains and agricultural the coast and even on the seabed. But the most conspicuous elements of the landscapes – all these structures and sites the cultural heritage does more than tell cultural heritage. Every building has a are an important part of our common our history – it is also part of a dynamic story to tell about the people who built it memory. We are still discovering valuable contemporary environment. And like and those who lived there or used it. The structures and sites all over Norway. Not ­species and habitats, the cultural heritage cultural heritage brings our history to everything can be preserved, so we must

26 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ————————— Birthplace of Norway’s brown cheese protected The Directorate for Cultural Heritage issued little about the whereabouts of archaeo- a protection order for the summer farm logical remains. Solbråsetra in Oppland county in summer For every archaeological site or struc- 2011. Transhumance used to be a vital part ture registered, there may be 20 that are of the annual agricultural cycle in Norway. unknown. By August 2011, about 250 000 The buildings at Solbråsetra are historically archaeological finds had been made at important in themselves, but are even more about 121 000 different sites in Norway. valuable as part of an entire summer farm with Archaeological monuments and sites the old pastures, and as an illustration of the include rock art – prehistoric symbols old way of life. Solbråsetra is also considered and pictures carved, engraved or painted to be the birthplace of Norway’s characteristic on natural rock. Norway’s rock art may sweet brown whey cheese. In summer 1863, have been created up to 9 000 years ago. one of the dairymaids here is said to have There are rock art sites in all parts of the added cream to the whey, producing a much country – more than 1700 sites have been richer cheese. The combination of the registered, with a total of about 31 000 buildings, the landscape and its history give images. The rock drawings of Alta in the Solbråsetra a value that cannot be measured far north of Norway are on the UNESCO in monetary terms. World Heritage List. Six other sites in Norway are also on ————————— the World Heritage List. This means that they are considered to be of outstanding universal value, and Norway has a special Hayfields need active management responsibility for safeguarding them. The The cultural landscape includes areas other sites are Bryggen (the old wharf in that are intensively farmed, pasture Bergen), Røros mining town, the Struve and grazing land, and coastal heaths. geodetic arc, the Vega archipelago, the These are semi-natural habitats that West Norwegian fjords Geirangerfjord are completely dependent on continued and Nærøyfjord, and Urnes stave church. ­human activity if they are to survive. But In the Middle Ages, Norway had the prospects are not bright. Accord- Ormelid farm in Sogn og Fjordane between 1000 and 2000 stave churches. ing to the Norwegian Nature Index, the county. These are built entirely of wood, with state of biodiversity in Norway’s major Photo: Hans Olav Stegarud cylindrical columns and a shingled roof, ecosystems is poorest for open lowland © Directorate for Cultural Heritage and were once to be found in other parts of landscapes and forests. It is difficult Northern Europe as well. Today there are and perhaps impossible to prevent such only 28 left. In addition, there are just over ­habitats from becoming overgrown with 200 secular medieval wooden buildings trees and shrubs. In addition, many areas still standing. Many of them are dwellings are threatened by development. and storehouses from old farms, and the Many habitat types in the cultural land- decide which elements are most valuable oldest of them date back to the 1200s. All scape are very rich in species, including and ensure that they can still be enjoyed buildings dating from before AD 1537 are rare animals and plants. Up to 50 different by future generations. automatically protected under the Cultural plant species per square metre may sound At present, we do not have a good Heritage Act, and individual protection like a description of the Amazonian rain enough overview of which structures and orders can be issued for more recent build- forest, but this kind of species diver- sites are most valuable. We know too little ings. The Directorate for Cultural Heritage sity has been found in Norwegian hay about their condition, and information on is responsible for monitoring the state of meadows. They are an excellent example which of them have been lost is incom- repair of historical buildings, and all of the of the fact that it is not always enough plete. Archaeological remains on or below medieval buildings were restored during give a habitat type legal protection if we the surface of the soil or under water the 1990s. Boats and ships are also an im- want to preserve it for future generations. are often the only source of information portant part of Norway’s cultural heritage: Hay meadow must be used. If they are on Norway’s earliest history, and they 207 vessels are considered to be of histori- not mown, they gradually cease to be hay are automatically protected under the cal importance, and protection orders have meadows, and lose their special character Cultural Heritage Act. But we know too been issued for nine of these. and rich plant and animal life.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 27 National targets Many threatened species are associated with the cultural landscape. They include – A valuable cultural heritage black vanilla orchid (Nigritella nigra), mountain arnica (Arnica montana), hermit beetle (Osmoderma eremita), 6.1. Annual losses of cultural monuments, sites corncrake (Crex crex), black-tailed farmland is used for other purposes, and and environments will by 2020 not exceed godwit (Limosa limosa) and skylark climate change is a new and growing 0.5 % of the total. (Alauda arvensis). The diversity of both threat. A changing climate can some- species and habitats and the combina- times bring surprises too. In summer 6.2. Annual losses of archaeological monu- ments and sites that are automatically tion of nature and human influence is 2011, archaeologists found evidence that protected under the Cultural Heritage Act also an important part of the Norwegian a ­thousand years ago, people were living will by 2020 not exceed 0.5% of the total. identity – what Norwegians often think of in what is now Breheimen national park as quintessentially Norwegian, and part – at 1900 metres above sea level. Shoes, 6.3. A representative selection of cultural of what tourists come here to see. The textiles, hunting equipment and other monuments, sites and environments will cultural landscape is valuable in so many ­remains lay hidden under snow and ice be protected by individual protection ways – in biological, historical, aesthetic for hundreds of years until a warmer orders by 2020. and economic terms. ­climate caused the ice to retreat, revealing­ 6.4. A standard of repair where only normal Farm buildings and archaeological new traces of our history. maintenance is required will be achieved remains in and around farms also form In all, roughly 6 000, or 0.1 %, of for protected buildings, installations and part of the cultural landscape. Some all Norway’s historical buildings are vessels by 2020. are relatively recent, others ancient. In protected. Of these, 3 393 are in private 2011, a farm called Ormelid in Sogn og ownership. A survey in 2006 showed 6.5. A representative selection of archaeologi- Fjordane received protection. This area that the condition of many of them was cal monuments and sites that are auto- has been farmed continuously for 4 000 deteriorating. Since then, more funding matically protected under the Cultural Heritage Act will be safeguarded by 2020. years, and there is a wealth of structures has been made available and a number and semi-natural habitat types around of restoration and maintenance projects 6.6. The extinction of threatened species today’s farm buildings. They can tell us a have improved the situation. Guidelines ­associated with cultural landscapes will great deal about farming techniques and are now being drawn up for maintaining be halted and the status of declining how they have changed during the farm’s historical buildings once a satisfactory ­species will be improved by 2020. long history, and about how living condi- standard of repair has been achieved. tions have changed for its inhabitants. In addition, eight cultural environments 6.7. The diversity of habitat types in cultural landscapes will be maintained or restored All elements of the Sami cultural – ­areas where buildings and other struc- within their natural range, so that there heritage that are more than 100 years old tures and their surroundings form an inte- are viable populations of all species. are automatically protected under the grated whole – have been protected under ­Genetic diversity and important ecological Cultural Heritage Act. So far, only a small the Cultural Heritage Act. They range functions and services will be maintained. proportion of Sami buildings have been from the Birkelunden area of central Oslo registered, so there is no complete over- and the old silver mines and their sur- 6.8. All agricultural areas will be sustainably view of which of them are automatically roundings in Kongsberg to the historical managed by 2020. protected or their condition. Systematic summer settlement of the Skolt Sami in 6.9. The most seriously threatened habitat mapping of automatically protected Sami Neiden in Finnmark. The Ministry of the types in cultural landscapes will be classi- buildings and their condition started in Environment is preparing a white paper fied as selected habitat types. 2011. on Norway’s overall cultural heritage

6.10. The most seriously threatened species Working to protect our heritage ————————— associated with the cultural landscape Our landscapes and cultural monuments will be classified as priority species. Heritage Here and sites are under constant pressure – from structural changes in agriculture This is a recently started project to give 6.11. A representative selection of habitat types and other sectors, changing settlement people easy mobile access to digital infor­ in the cultural landscape will be protected for future generations. patterns and lifestyles, depopulation of mation and stories about where they live rural areas, construction and develop- or places they visit. All you need to do is ment. Cultural landscapes are lost when download an app to gain access to infor­ mation on history, buildings and nature, tailored to your location. The system is being tested in three pilot locations.

28 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ————————— ————————— Black-tailed godwit and hermit beetle – priority species

The black-tailed godwit and the hermit beetle are both threatened species that are associated with the cultural landscape, and both were designated as priority species under the Nature Diversity Act in May 2011. There are two subspecies of black-tailed godwit in Norway, one of which nests in farm- Borrehaugen, a Viking burial mound in Vestfold. Photo: Lisen Roll © Directorate for Cultural Heritage land, while the other prefers natural wetlands. The subspecies that prefers farmland has found suitable nesting figure recorded since 1980. More than the agricultural sector are an important sites in the Jæren area near Stavanger. two thirds of all farmland lost is used means of ensuring satisfactory manage- Changes in agricultural techniques for housing, commercial activities and ment of the most valuable areas of the such as earlier mowing of grassland, transport purposes. The Planning and cultural landscape. These instruments cultivation of natural meadow and Building Act is an important tool for need to be better targeted. According to drainage of wet meadows are threats safeguarding the cultural landscape and the 2011 Agricultural Agreement between to the species on its breeding grounds. for conservation of soil resources. The the state and the farmers, a working The hermit beetle is one of Norway’s agricultural, environmental and cultural group is to look at the reporting system largest beetles. It lives in old hollow heritage authorities are working together for agricultural goals and instruments. broad-leaved trees, which are often a to safeguard and restore valuable cultural characteristic part of the cultural land­ landscapes and our archaeological and scape. It has only been recorded from architectural heritage. Targeted measures one site in Norway, a churchyard in the have been implemented in 22 particularly 6.12. The conservation value of protected town of Tønsberg. It was rediscovered valuable cultural landscapes that were ­areas will be maintained or restored. there in 2008 – the first record for selected by the agricultural and environ- 6.13. Substantial adverse impacts on biological over 100 years. The main threat to the mental authorities, and in two of Norway’s or landscape diversity in connection with hermit beetle is loss of habitat as the World Heritage sites, the West Norwegian the import and release of alien organisms number and quality of old hollow trees Fjords (Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord) will be avoided. Eradication, containment declines. and the Vega Archipelago. or control measures will be initiated or In some cases, the best way of safe- implemented for particularly invasive alien ————————— guarding threatened species and habitats organisms that are already established in is to designate them as priority species or the Norwegian environment. policy. Norway’s world heritage policy is selected habitat types under the Nature 6.14. The release of genetically modified organ- also being considered. The Ministry of Diversity Act. Hay meadows and mires isms, cf the Gene Technology Act, will not the Environment is working with other traditionally used for haymaking, which have adverse impacts on biodiversity. ministries to establish a permanent na- are some of Norway’s most species-rich tional pilgrim centre in Trondheim, where habitats, were included in the first list 6.15. Municipal, county and regional planning Nidaros cathedral is the destination for of selected habitat types. As this work will help to prevent undesirable losses of pilgrim routes in Norway. continues, more species and habitat types agricultural areas and safeguard impor- To counteract some of the threats associated with the cultural landscape tant elements of the cultural heritage. to the cultural landscape, Norway has may be considered. Some alien species 6.16. A representative selection of structures been seeking to reduce annual losses of can spread rapidly in a cultural landscape and sites belonging to the cultural herit- farmland. In 2004, a national target was that is no longer actively managed. age of Svalbard will be preserved as set of halving conversion of soil resources Regional action plans are being drawn up scientific source material and as a source for purposes other than agriculture to combat invasive alien species. Some of of emotional and aesthetic experience by 2010. In the period 1994–2003, the these will be completed in 2012, and will for ­future generations. Losses of such average rate of loss was 1 400 hectares give priority to action in protected areas. structures and sites as a result of human ­activity will not exceed an average of a year, and the aim was to reduce this Action plans for two alien species, narrow- 0.1 % of the total per year. to 570 hectares. According to official leaved ragwort (Senecio inaequidens) statistics, 669 hectares of cultivated land and Japanese rose (Rosa rugosa), are also was converted to other uses in 2010. This being prepared. is 20 % less than in 2009 and the lowest Environmental policy instruments in

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 29 A good urban environment

Even in Norway, with its small population and plenty of space, most people live in built-up areas. On the other hand, no one lives far from the country- side. Towns depend on the natural environment to function properly.

For many people, a good life means the places, theatres, cinemas, museums and many parts of the world, because urban smell of fresh coffee from the next-door shops, while at the same time being able sprawl means that rural areas are out of café, a convenient greengrocer’s shop on to go for a country walk or an afternoon’s reach. Norwegians realise that they are the corner and a lively variety of neigh- skiing straight from their front door. And privileged, and enjoy being able to live a bours. Norwegians are lucky enough to they don’t want to be dependent on a car life with a variety of options for education, be able to combine this with easy access for everyday activities. work and leisure activities, combined with to fjord and forest. There are now more than 900 towns plenty of opportunities for outdoor recrea- About 80 % of Norway’s population and built-up areas in Norway, ranging tion. Do you prefer canoeing or sitting lives in towns and built-up areas – so for from Oslo with a population of almost in a café? Picking bilberries or watching most of us, a good urban environment is 600 000 to settlements with only about 200 a film? In Norway, there is no need to important for health and well-being. And inhabitants. But even in the largest towns, choose. although there are always some people everyone has easy access to attractive who go against the tide, more and more outdoor recreation areas all year round. Effective land-use and sustainable people are moving to urban areas and You can start the day with a cycle ride in transport have been doing so ever since the Second the countryside and end it at the cinema, Growing numbers of people make it more World War. People want to live near work- a concert or a café. This is impossible in difficult to maintain the quality of the

30 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein o f the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry

————————— Sound principles of sustainable urban development:­ environment in and around towns. Green spaces may be lost as infrastructure is • Public transport should form the developed to cope with the rising volume backbone of the urban structure of traffic. There tends to be less space and and govern development patterns. more queues and noise, and emissions of • There should be a strong centre with particulate matter and greenhouse gases a concentration of workplaces, housing rise. In recent years, there has been a and retail and office functions. concerted effort to improve the situation • Commercial and residential develop- through urban renewal and by divert- ments should be concentrated around ing heavy traffic away from town centres public transport nodes. and residential areas, reducing industrial • There should be local communities with pollution and introducing a variety of dense and varied residential districts, ­environmental improvements. green spaces, schools, day care centres Greenhouse gas emissions in Norway’s and retail and commercial activities. 13 largest towns rose by 5 % from 1991 • There should be a continuous green to 2008, then dropped in 2009 but rose structure with green corridors that link again in 2010. These figures only include urban districts and green spaces with ­emissions that the towns can control the surrounding countryside. themselves. Road traffic accounts for • There should be a network of main about 60 % of these emissions. Emissions cycle routes that make cycling an from stationary sources, particularly attractive transport option. ­heating, account for a further 20 %, • The main road system should not pass about 10 % comes from landfills, and the through local communities, but should remainder from a variety of sources. Road serve urban centres and public traffic is also the most important source transport nodes.

of NO2 emissions and a major source of particulate matter, and emissions of ————————— these pollutants are still too high in some Norwegian towns. guidelines for coordinated land-use and Compact urban development patterns transport planning almost 20 years ago. are needed to make it possible to provide Local and regional authorities must use efficient public transport and encourage the guidelines as a basis for their plan- more people to walk and cycle. Promoting ning, and this is particularly important compact urban development is therefore in and around towns. For example, a also sound climate policy. However, regional strategy has been developed densification and urban renewal are for Oslo and the surrounding county of more challenging tasks than greenfield Akershus. The work was headed by the development. In 2009, Norway adopted Ministry of the Environment. Coordinated a new Planning and Building Act, which land-use and transport plans and reviews includes tools that make it easier to of ways of promoting more sustainable ­promote densification. transport have also been drawn up for The 13 largest towns in Norway are the other larger urban areas of Norway. now growing largely through densifi­ The 13 largest towns are taking part in cation and urban renewal. Statistics show the Cities of the Future programme. They that transport becomes greener as popu­ are assessing the use of road pricing and lation density rises. The pattern of devel- restrictions on parking combined with opment in smaller towns and settlements the expansion of public transport and is generally less compact. Fewer people networks of cycle paths. use sustainable modes of transport, both Many of Norway’s towns have grown because public transport is poorer and up in the areas with the best agricultural because fewer people cycle or walk. soils, and biodiversity is generally ­highest Norway adopted national policy in these areas, which are also most

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 31 National target

– A good urban environment

7.1. Municipal, county and regional planning­ will help to ensure that towns and urban productive in biological terms. The Oslo general public are sited in areas that areas are sustainable, attractive and region has more threatened species than are poorly served by public transport, conform to the principles of functional any other part of the country, and also often outside or on the outskirts of design, with a physical environment that the highest population density. The most towns and urban ­settlements. This does promotes health and a good quality of life. heavily used outdoor recreation areas not promote sustainable development. are near towns. All these factors make it important to prevent uncontrolled urban ————————— sprawl and to use areas that are suitable Cities of the Future for development as effectively as possible. Farmland, the presence of threatened are on their way ­species or habitat types, and other areas The Ministry of the Environment that are valuable for biodiversity are all initiated the Cities of the Future taken into account in Norway’s planning programme in 2008. It involves procedures. The Government has also cooperation between the 13 largest taken steps to strengthen conservation towns in Norway, the Norwegian of soil resources. Forests and other Association of Local and Regional recreational areas near a number of towns Authorities, four ministries and the have been safeguarded through planning business sector. The main objective decisions or – as in the case of the exten- is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions sive forest areas around Oslo – by special from road transport, stationary energy legislation. use, consumption and waste in the largest urban areas. Climate change Planning where services for the adaptation strategies are also to be public are located developed. In addition, the programme The position of urban settlement ­centres is intended to provide a better urban and other public transport nodes needs environment, which will improve to be strengthened. At present, the public health, promote commercial ­number of residents and workplaces activities and make towns more in town centres is rising slowly, but attractive places to live in. ­retailing is losing ground. From 2003 to 2009, total retail turnover in the centers ————————— of the ­largest towns dropped by 5–6 %, only remaining stable in Oslo. This is In 2009, the Ministry of the Environment, partly because of the tendency to site in c­ooperation with Statsbygg (the agency shopping centres and other services on responsible for public construction the outskirts of towns or outside them. and property management), therefore The Government is seeking to coun- published a set of good examples showing teract this trend, and in 2008 adopted how public services can be sited to pro- regulations restricting the establishment mote sustainable urban and community of shopping centres outside settlement development. centres. The aim is to reduce depend- ency on private cars and strengthen Urban spaces, green structure urban centres. and biodiversity In some cases, hospitals, colleges An attractive, functional urban environ- and other state-run services for the ment is important for well-being and

32 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

————————— More nature in towns than you might think: priority species in our immediate ­surroundings

The counties with the largest ­numbers of threatened species are Oslo, Akershus, Vestfold, Telemark, ­Østfold and Buskerud. About 40 % of all Norwegians live in this region, which also provides suitable condi- tions for species that require a relati- vely warm climate. Many species and habitat types here are not found any- where else in the country. Two plants, northern dragon’s head (Dracocepha- lum ruyschiana) and red helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra), and the hermit beetle (Osmoderma eremita) are examples of species that find suitable habitats in and near densely popula- ted areas. They were all designated as ­priority species under the Nature Diversity Act in May 2011 .

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public health. Easy access to frequently The new Planning and Building Act In Oslo, a major project is under way in needed services, clean air, and safe and highlights the importance of the quality the Groruddalen area, which includes the welcoming surroundings are all important of outdoor areas and sustainable urban eastern districts of Oslo, with a population to town-dwellers. Qualities such as these design. The interests of children and of more than 100 000. One of the main also encourage people to spend more time young people have been given a more challenges is to reduce the environmental outside, which is particularly important prominent place in planning processes. problems and the barrier effects of the in a country like Norway, where it is dark Near housing, there must be adequate busy main roads and railway that run and cold for much of the year. opportunities for safe access and play through the area. The long-term objec- It is also important to retain the variety and other activities in a varied and tives are sustainable urban development, of habitats that support biodiversity in ­continuous green structure, and ready clear environmental improvements, and and around urban settlements. It is not access to ­surrounding rural areas. improvements in the quality of life and only the surrounding rural areas that are Official statistics show that in 2009, living conditions for residents of the area. important – green spaces within towns, 67 % of the population in the largest towns The Government and the City of Oslo groups of trees, old trees, parks and rivers lived less than 200 metres from play have entered into a cooperation agree- are all vital habitats for many different and recreational areas, 2 % less than in ment for the period 2007–16, and are plants and animals. 2004. The proportion living less than 500 providing half the necessary funding each Many towns are changing “from the ­metres from larger outdoor recreation (a total of NOK 100 million a year). ­inside out”, for example as industries ­areas remained constant at 64 %. There move away from town centres and is no clear relationship between the other activities take over. This means population density in a town and access that we have to find good solutions for to recreation areas. urban renewal, with a mixture of old and Access to the shoreline, rivers and lakes new buildings and access to shops and has generally improved, and many towns ­services that people need every day. have developed attractive urban spaces.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 33 The great outdoors

That wonderful sense of achievement when you reach the top of the mountain. The thrill of finding your own private lake. Norwegians are ­outdoor enthusiasts, and can still light a fire with only one match or find their way through the wilderness.

Fishing from a rocky shoreline? Head shells with your four-year-old. An evening both young and old. It may be quiet and over heels in deep powder? Perhaps you swim in the last of the sunshine. Run- reflective or strenuous enough to exhaust prefer to glide silently across the still ning on the springy forest floor in a light the fittest. Whatever we choose, it gives water of a sheltered fjord in a kayak. shower of rain. Cycling with your dog. us peace of mind and a sense of physical Or you might enjoy that Norwegian And then there is the anticipation. What achievement, from the pride of the five- ­classic, a ­sunny Easter in the snow- will this year’s cloudberry season be like, year-old who has managed to come down covered ­mountains, where old coarse- and will there be any in our secret spot the slope on skis for the first time without grained snow and the warmth of the sun this year? Will we manage to catch a trout help, to the satisfaction of challenging show that spring is ­approaching. The where we could see them rising last year yourself to dive from the same height as satis­faction of seeing that the summit is but couldn’t get a bite? last year – and succeeding. closer every time you take a rest. Pushing Outdoor recreation is all of this – all An active outdoor life makes people yourself to go faster, and feeling your legs the different activities people enjoy in the happier and healthier. Norway has a and heart respond. Or quieter pleasures: countryside, whether alone or with other small population and plenty of space. wandering along the shore looking for people. There is always something for Opportunities to enjoy the outdoors

34 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Kim Abel/Naturarkivet.no©Kim

importance of safeguarding the natural healthy habits established in childhood environment. can last a lifetime. To widen access to the outdoors even Population density in towns and more, the state also purchases land and ­built-up areas in Norway is rising. This concludes agreements with owners so is consistent with Norway’s goal of that more areas can be set aside for promoting compact urban development, ­outdoor recreation. which is also sound land-use, transport and climate policy. However, this trend Something for everyone also involves a risk that green spaces will Nature is a source of enjoyment and be lost and access to play and recreation contributes to the Norwegian sense of areas will become poorer. identity. Surveys have shown that about In Norway, the use of motor ­vehicles two thirds of Norwegians would like take off-road and motor boats in lakes and part in outdoor activities more often, both ­rivers is generally only permitted for close to their homes and further afield. essential purposes, for example in Enjoying the peace and quiet and the ­connection with public services and unspoilt nature are the most important reindeer husbandry. Motor vehicles and reasons given for visiting the countryside. boats can damage the terrain, cause noise Many of the outdoor activities that are pollution and disturb the fauna, and their popular in Norway are nature-based and use can result in conflict with outdoor give people experiences that will live long recreation interests. in their memories. As more and more people move to Maintaining and strengthening towns and built-up areas, green spaces access rights and nearby countryside have become Active use helps to maintain and increasingly important as the setting for ­strengthen access rights to the country­ leisure activities, outdoor recreation, and side. In some parts of the country, opportunities to experience nature. ­particularly most popular stretches of Being outdoors and taking part in coastline such as much of the Oslofjord, outdoor activities is important for many there is constant pressure on access Norwegians. Surveys show that the rights. Even though building in the proportion of the population aged over 100-metre belt along the shoreline is 16 who participate in outdoor recreation generally prohibited, many exemptions has risen over the past 30 years. However, are still being granted, for instance so fewer and fewer young people are ­taking that holiday homes can be built. Ille- part in traditional activities such as gal privatisation is also a problem – for hiking, fishing, berry-picking and cross ­example, people may put up fences and country skiing. The expansion of newer build jetties, denying the public access are very important to Norwegians, activities such as mountain biking, back- to the shoreline. The authorities are and there are very generous access country skiing and kiteboarding is not therefore taking steps to improve access, rights to the countryside – you can enough to counterbalance the decline in for example by setting aside areas for out- walk and ski, put up a tent for the night more traditional activities. door recreation and extending trails along and swim and canoe in lakes and rivers, In 2009, a survey showed that only the coastline. The most popular areas in or pick ­berries and mushrooms, almost about half of young people (age 15–24 densely populated parts of the country everywhere ­except on cultivated farm- years) in Norway have heard of their are being given priority. land. Green spaces and countryside ­access rights to the countryside, and Traditional access rights in Norway close to people’s homes are particularly people in this age group know less about were codified when the Outdoor important, because they are the ­setting their access rights than the rest of the Recreation Act was adopted in 1957. for most of our everyday physical population. This is the most important piece of ­activity. And people who have an oppor- On the other hand, more children legislation for maintaining access rights tunity to get out and enjoy the country- are taking part in outdoor recreation and ensuring that everyone in Norway side are more likely to appreciate the ­activities. This is important because has opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 35 National targets In 2009, new legislation was adopted for “Marka”, the large areas of hills, lakes – The great outdoors and forest around Oslo. These are the most intensively used outdoor recreation areas in Norway, and the new legislation 8.1. Everyone will have the opportunity is intended to encourage and provide to take part in outdoor recreation as opportunities for outdoor recreation, a healthy and environmentally sound enjoyment of the natural environment and More opportunities close to home ­leisure activity that provides a sense sport. Sound planning under the Planning Areas close to towns are always under of well-being both in their local ­communities and further afield in and Building Act is also needed to achieve pressure, and active efforts are needed the countryside. the objectives of the outdoor recreation to retain already existing green spaces, legislation. footpaths and cycle paths, public parks 8.2. Areas of value for outdoor recreation and outdoor recreation areas. The Gov- will be safeguarded and managed in Every outing brings health benefits ernment’s aim is for there to be adequate a way that maintains the natural The Government is working actively to opportunities for safe access and play environment. achieve the goal of ensuring that every- and other activities near housing, schools one has the opportunity to take part in and day care centres, and a varied and 8.3. Access rights to uncultivated land will be maintained. outdoor recreation. One basic principle continuous green structure with ready of its policy is that our own generation access to surrounding areas of country- 8.4. Municipal, county and regional planning is responsible for ensuring that future side. At the request of the Ministry of the will promote active outdoor recreation generations have the same opportuni- Environment, the Directorate for Nature and create local communities that ties to enjoy the outdoors and unspoiled Management has started a programme promote health and a sense of well- nature as we do ourselves. to encourage more physical activity, being and are environmentally sound. As one step in developing an inte- especially by children and young people, grated outdoor recreation policy, the and to safeguard more outdoor recreation Government will draw up a national areas near people’s homes. action plan for designated outdoor The relevant public authorities at cen- ­recreation areas­ for which the state tral and local level also work closely with provides financial assistance. This will voluntary outdoor recreation organisa- provide guidelines for further work on tions. Municipal bodies are responsible for state involvement in providing outdoor managing many outdoor recreation areas. recreation areas and access routes. It is important to teach children Strategies for encouraging more people and young people about activities that to make use of the outdoors will also be have ­little environmental impact as developed. part of ­effort to encourage them to be There are now about 2 300 outdoor more ­active out of doors, and to share recreation areas in Norway that have Norwegian outdoor traditions with people either been purchased or are permanently from other cultural backgrounds. Various safeguarded through agreements on projects have been initiated in schools their use. New areas are being added as part of the “environmental rucksack” every year. In addition, long-distance ­project. Their aim is to develop children trails are being established. Some of and young people’s enjoyment of and curi- these are pilgrim ways, royal highways osity about their natural surroundings. or other ­historically important routes. Snowmobile and other off-road motor Coastal trails also provide better access traffic has increased in Norway, and if to attractive areas along the shoreline. this trend continues, people will have less Reasonably-priced accommodation is opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet often available along these routes. For of unspoilt nature. Restrictions on the use example, a number of disused lighthouse of motor vehicles and motor boats must buildings and cabins along the coastal therefore be maintained to protect nature routes have been opened to the public. and human welfare.

36 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 37 A non-toxic environment

We used to be able to see pollutants in the smoke from factory chimneys. Nowadays they are just as likely to exit through the gate as constituents of products. We need updated knowledge to deal with this new kind of pollution.

Everyone is entitled to an environment polluting even the high Arctic. creation and production in Norway is that promotes good health and welfare, We must take steps to ensure that heavily dependent on a clean environ- and where biodiversity and productiv- in future, the products we use do not ment. We are also responsible for making ity are maintained. And people do care pose a threat to human health or the sure that future generations do not inherit about their environment, as shown environment. The resources in waste pollution problems that we have created. by the strong public reaction when must be recovered, and re-used wherever Chemicals play a major role in im­ ­pollution was accidentally released into possible, and the environmental impact proving our welfare and in important the ­Akerselva river in Oslo in winter of waste disposal must be minimised. We products and services, but there are many 2011. Discoveries of toxic substances in must make sure that we have a clean and substances that pose an unacceptable ­products such as children’s toys serve ­non-toxic environment in order to main- risk to health or the environment. Some to raise public awareness of chemical tain a rich and varied fauna and flora and can cause cancer or allergies; others may ­hazards. Some substances are persistent to ensure that we can continue to enjoy disrupt reproduction, damage genetic and can be transported far afield in the and harvest from our lakes and ­rivers, material, or harm the immune or nervous atmosphere and with ocean currents, forests and mountains. Much of the value systems. Persistent, bioaccumulative and

38 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ©Kim Abel/Naturarkivet.no©Kim

————————— Global cooperation ­needed to deal with ­mercury toxic substances break down very slowly Mercury is a highly toxic and dangerous in the environment and accumulate along pollutant. It is transported to areas far from food chains. They are therefore a serious pollution sources with ocean currents and threat to biodiversity, food supplies and in the atmosphere, and is a threat to the the health of future generations. environment and to human health. It can cause foetal damage and damage to the PCB levels dropping nervous system, and we know that children Environmental concentrations of some are particularly susceptible to exposure to dangerous pollutants, for example PCBs, mercury. are dropping, showing that national and Total Norwegian releases of mercury to international bans on the use of chemicals air, soil and water were reduced from about or groups of chemicals that are known 6 tonnes in 1985 to 2.5 tonnes in 1995 and to be a serious threat do give results. to about 1 tonne in 2008. Emissions to air Industrial releases of priority substances in Norway are now considerably lower than have been greatly reduced in Norway and the atmospheric transport of mercury to all Western countries, and overall releases Norway from other countries. of persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic International efforts are essential to ­substances are considerably lower than reduce the global spread of mercury. they were 15 years ago. However, every- Norway was one of the countries that took day products are becoming a more and the initiative for a new global instrument to more important source of such pollutants. reduce the use and releases of mercury. Emissions from factory chimneys have been cut drastically, but pollutants are ————————— incorporated into manufactured prod- ucts and can be released during their use and when they are disposed of. In gas industry are considerably higher many ­places, soil and sediments are still in Norway than in the other North Sea ­polluted by substances released many countries. However, Norway’s share of years ago. Substantial amounts of persis- total emissions to the North Sea region tent, bioaccumulative and toxic substanc- dropped from 59 % in 2007 to 51 % in 2009. es also reach Norway in the atmosphere and with ocean currents. Building up knowledge and Waste is a source of various types ­reducing releases of pollutants, including persistent, bio­ Tens of thousands of chemicals are in accumulative and toxic substances and use on the European market, in huge greenhouse gases. Waste quantities are numbers of different products. In the still rising in Norway, in recent years ­majority of cases, we know little or rather faster than the rate of economic ­nothing about their effects on health growth. But the proportion of non-­ and the environment. Nanomaterials are hazardous waste recovered has remained already in widespread use, but infor­ stable at about 78 %. The quantity of mation on possible risks to health and the hazardous waste is also rising, but more environment is inadequate. It is therefore and more of it is being dealt with through essential to build up sound knowledge approved channels. and adequate control of new substances Like heavy metals and organic that are being introduced to the market. ­pollutants, radioactive substances can Everyday products like clothes, furniture, cause environmental damage. Monitoring hobby articles, computers and mobile shows that levels of radioactive pollu- phones may contain chemicals we know tion in Norway are declining as a result little or nothing about. Research and of lower releases from the Sellafield monitoring of new chemicals and their ­reprocessing plant in England. use is therefore essential. Releases of pollutants from the oil and In many places, the soil and marine

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 39 National targets

– A non-toxic environment

9.1. Releases and use of substances that pose a serious threat to health or the environ- sediments are still contaminated as a substances that are persistent, bioaccu- ment will be continuously reduced with result of earlier industrial activities. mulative and toxic is to be eliminated by a view to eliminating them by 2020. These pollutants may be released and 2020. The precautionary principle will be

9.2. The risk that releases and use of chemicals spread to other areas. Some pollutants applied when information on the risks to will cause injury to health or environmen- are also transferred along the aquatic health and the environment is uncertain. tal damage will be minimised. food chain and may end up in fish and Persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic shellfish eaten by people. substances travel long distances in the 9.3. The dispersal of substances that are The continuing rise in waste gene­ atmosphere and with ocean currents and persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic, ration will gradually add to the problems through trade in products, and interna- and of other substances that give rise relating to waste management. This is tional cooperation is therefore essential to an equivalent level of concern, from why Norway is seeking to decouple the to deal with the problems they can cause. contaminated soil will be stopped or substantially reduced. Steps to reduce growth in waste quantities from economic Norway is actively involved in work the dispersal of other substances that growth. under various international conventions, may cause injury to health or environ­ Waste disposal can result in releases including the Stockholm Convention on mental damage will be taken on the of environmentally harmful substances Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), basis of case-by-case risk assessments. to soil, air and water. Strict regulation the Basel Convention on the Control has been introduced to limit releases of of Transboundary Movements of 9.4. Contamination of seabed sediments with ­pollutants from landfills and incineration Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, substances that are hazardous to health or the environment will not give rise to plants. A better solution for many types of the Rotterdam Convention on the Prior serious pollution problems. waste is re-use or recovery. Encouraging Informed Consent (PIC) Procedure re-use and recycling reduces the amount for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and 9.5. Releases, the risk of releases and the of waste landfilled or incinerated, and Pesticides in International Trade, and spread of radioactive substances that makes better use of the resources in the protocols on POPs and heavy metals may cause damage to health or the waste. under the Convention on Long-Range environment will be minimised. All Although Norway has no nuclear power Transboundary Air Pollution. Norway radioactive waste will be handled safely and in an approved manner. plants, radioactive substances are used has also been playing a key role in work for many different purposes, for example to develop a new global legally binding 9.6. The growth in the quantity of waste in hospitals and in research and educa- instrument on mercury. generated will be considerably lower tion. Their use can result in releases of Norway’s pollution control legislation than the rate of economic growth. radio­activity, and generates radioactive is an important instrument for regulating waste that must be stored appropriately. releases of pollutants at national level. Radioactive pollution and waste can also Under the Pollution Control Act, pollution be generated by various types of process is forbidden without specific permission. industries and during mineral extrac- Municipalities can also set limit values for tion and excavation in areas where shale pollution and other requirements regard- ­contains high levels of radon. There are ing environmental quality in zoning plans also radioactive components in some con- under the Planning and Building Act. sumer products, such as smoke detectors. The product control legislation is also important for regulating the use Chemicals that are hazardous to of chemicals in Norway. Norwegian health and the environment and EU chemicals legislation is largely Norway is seeking to minimise the risk harmonised through the Agreement on that releases and use of chemicals will the European Economic Area, but there cause injury to health or environmen- is some room for national regulation of a tal damage. The use and releases of number of specific substances. Taxes are

40 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein o f the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry

also used as a way of limiting the use of bioaccumulative and toxic substances in 9.7. The proportion of waste recovered will be some substances. products and the environment. raised to about 75 % of the total quantity Knowledge building is very important in 2010 and subsequently to 80 %. This is based on the principle that the quantity of to identify the risks different substances Waste waste recovered should be increased to a pose to health and the environment, and The overall objective of Norway’s waste level that is appropriate in economic and in order to develop effective regulation policy is to make better use of the environmental terms. and other measures. The Government is ­resources in waste, and at the same time taking steps to build up knowledge about minimise releases of greenhouse gases 9.8. Hazardous waste will be dealt with in an chemicals and the presence of persistent, and persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic appropriate way, so that it is either substances from waste. This involves the recovered or sufficient treatment capacity ————————— coordinated use of various policy instru- is provided within Norway. ments, including the pollution control Fly-tipping 9.9. The generation of each type of hazardous legislation, taxes, refund, take-back and waste will be reduced by 2020 compared Illegal dumping of cars, agricultural deposit and return schemes, agreements with the 2005 level. machinery, electrical and electronic with industry and information activities. equipment and other waste is a threat to The idea is to ensure a sound balance people and wildlife and can cause serious in economic and environmental terms pollution. Fly-tipped waste is also between waste recovery and incineration extremely unsightly. There may be as many and landfilling. as several thousand fly-tipping sites in The Government has decided to pre- Norway. An important principle of sent a white paper on waste policy, focus- environmental policy is that the polluter ing on ways of improving the use of the should pay – which in this case means that resources in waste and waste prevention. whoever produces the waste is responsible for the costs of transport, storage and Radioactive substances proper treatment. People and companies Releases, the risk of releases and the can sometimes cut their costs considerably spread of radioactive substances that may by dumping waste illegally, and may cause damage to health or the environ- therefore resort to fly-tipping. ment will be minimised. All radio­active The municipalities are responsible for waste will be handled safely and in an monitoring littering and fly-tipping. approved manner. The scope of the They can issue orders to clean up ­Pollution Control Act has been expanded fly-tipped waste, and can impose fines if to include radioactive pollution and those responsible do not comply. The ­radioactive waste. A declaration system county governors are responsible for for radioactive waste has been introduced, supervising and advising the and will provide better information on the municipalities. quantities and types of waste.

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Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 41 Clean air

Invisible, but nevertheless a basic necessity. Plants, animals and people require air every minute, from birth to death.

A clean atmosphere is essential for our also transported to Norway from other of people in Norway. The main source is health and well-being and for a healthy parts of Europe. Acid rain has wiped out road traffic, which according to the World fauna and flora, and in Norway we are many fish stocks in Norway. Although Health Organization is responsible for the fortunate enough to enjoy clean, clear air the situation has improved, acidification loss of many “healthy life years”. in most of the country. However, local air of lakes and rivers will continue to be quality is not satisfactory in all Norwegian a problem in large parts of the country Cleaner air today than in the 1990s towns. The national targets for local air unless emissions are further reduced in Local air quality

quality are not always met, for example other European countries as well. New Particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5)

in areas where there is heavy road traf- emissions cuts have now been agreed and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) are the fic or when large numbers of people are under the Gothenburg Protocol for the ­dominant components of local air using fuelwood or oil for heating during period up to 2020. At national level, the ­pollution. Air quality has generally cold spells in winter. Poor air quality can Norwegian Government is making a improved since the 1990s, but in 2010, ­damage health, and some population particular effort to reduce emissions of there were still places where the targets

groups are more vulnerable than others. nitrogen oxides (NOx) in accordance for particulate matter and NO2 were not Air pollutants that are responsible with international commitments. met (too many exceedances of the target for acid rain, eutrophication and the Noise is one of the environmental levels). For particulate matter, model- formation of ground-level ozone are problems that affects the largest number ling indicates that as a rough estimate,

42 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein of the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry

this affected 60 000 people in Oslo and cation of surface water corre­sponded to 5 000 in Trondheim. There are also some about 10 % of Norway, and this has not smaller towns and built-up areas where changed significantly in recent years. the target for particulate matter is not However, critical loads for acidification ­being met. of forest are not exceeded in Norway.

For NO2, modelling indicates that Acidification has seriously harmed 4 000 people in Oslo were affected by much of the freshwater fauna across

failure to meet the NO2 target. However, much of the southern half of Norway. the results are uncertain, and this figure There is still serious damage to ­benthic may be an underestimate. During cold animals and crustaceans, and the spells in winter there is often little or no ­situation has not stabilised. About 15 000 wind, and high pollution levels can build fish stocks have been wiped out or up near the busiest roads. Temperature severely depleted. In recent years there inversions ­frequently develop in these has been an improvement in water quality. weather ­conditions, trapping cold air and There are also signs that fish stocks are pollutants near the ground. Inversions ­recovering, although many lakes are still often last only for a few hours, but they without fish. may persist for several days, exposing a The area where nitrogen deposition large proportion of the population to high exceeds critical loads for eutrophication pollution levels. This happened in Bergen of terrestrial ecosystems declined from in January 2010 and in Oslo in January 1980 to 1995, but has not changed since 2003 and 2009. then. Critical loads were still exceeded Other pollutants, including sulphur in about 14 % of the area of Norway in

­dioxide (SO2), ground-level ozone (O3), 2005. Nitrogen deposition has ­resulted carbon monoxide (CO), polycyclic in changes in biodiversity both in ­aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Norway and in other parts of Europe. ­benzene, can also reduce local air quality. Norwegian monitoring programmes show a clear relationship between atmos- Long-range transboundary air pheric ­deposition of nitrogen and species pollution ­composition, and that there are negative Emissions of sulphur and nitrogen in impacts on ground vegetation and algal ­Europe have been reduced by 60 and growth. In nutrient-poor freshwater 20 % respectively since 1990, resulting bodies, higher nitrogen inputs result in ­in­similar reductions in inputs to Norway. increased algal and other plant growth In 2005, the area affected by acid depo- and changes in biodiversity. sition exceeding critical loads for acidifi­ High-ozone episodes in Norway often

————————— Definitions Particulate matter is a complex mixture of microscopic particles in air. Particles are formed during combustion and by ­mechanical wear. They include both wind-blown dust of various kinds and particles formed directly in the atmosphere by ­condensation of vapours. Particulate matter is divided into different categories according to size. The most important of these

are PM10 (particles less than 10 micrometres (µm) across) and PM2.5 (particles less than 2.5 µm across). Acid rain: Acidification is caused by inputs of sulphur and nitrogen compounds. These may be deposited in rain and snow

(wet deposition) or directly from the atmosphere (dry deposition). Nitrogen oxides (NOx) are largely formed at high tempera­ tures during the combustion of fossil fuels.

Ground-level ozone: Ozone (O3) is a gas found both in the protective ozone layer and near ground level, where it is an air

pollutant. It is formed by reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. The main source of ground-level ozone in Norway is long-range transport of pollutants from other countries in Europe. However, emissions in Norway also contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, especially near major pollution sources. High levels of ground-level ozone can cause health problems and damage vegetation and materials. Critical levels for human health and vegetation are sometimes exceeded in summer in Norway. Noise means any unwanted sound such as excessive traffic or industrial noise, but also sounds that are normally experienced as positive.

————————— Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 43 National targets

– Clean air

10.1. Air pollution (SO2, NOx, VOCs, ammonia and particulate matter) will not cause health or environmental damage.

10.2. Annual emissions of sulphur dioxide (SO2) will be maintained at less than 22 000 occur in conjunction with high-pressure matter are road traffic (including exhaust tonnes. systems over continental Europe, which emissions and asphalt dust from the use tend to transport polluted air northwards. of studded tyres), fuelwood use and long-

10.3. Annual emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) The highest ozone levels are generally range transport of pollutants. Road traffic, will not exceed 156 000 tonnes. measured between Vest-Agder county particularly diesel vehicles, is the most

and the Oslofjord. High-ozone episodes important source of NO ­emissions. The 10.4. Annual emissions of volatile organic 2 generally last for a few hours or days, and health risks associated with air ­pollution compounds (VOCs) will be maintained usually occur in spring and early summer. depend both on the concentrations of at less than 195 000 tonnes. Annual emissions from the entire mainland and The target values for ground-level ozone different pollutants and on how long the Economic Zone of Norway south of in Norwegian and EU legislation are exposure to them lasts. The Climate 62˚ N will be maintained at less than 70 % exceeded every year, but the degree to and Pollution Agency and other govern- of the 1989 level (188 000 tonnes). which they are exceeded and the number ment agencies are considering whether

of episodes vary a great deal from year to Norway should implement stricter limit 10.5. Annual emissions of ammonia will be year. The information threshold for ozone values for air pollutants in the Pollution maintained at less than 23 000 tonnes. is rarely exceeded in Norway (the most Regulations. 10.6. The 24-hour mean concentration of recent episode was in 2006). Critical levels of ozone for crops are Long-range transboundary air particulate matter (PM10) will not exceed 50 µg/m3 on more than 7 days a year. exceeded in some years in Norway, pollution while critical levels for forest are rarely Many countries have undertaken to 10.7. The hourly mean concentration of exceeded. reduce their emissions of air pollut- nitrogen dioxide (NO ) will not exceed 2 ants under the Gothenburg Protocol to 150 µg/m3 for more than 8 hours per year. Noise Abate Acidification, Eutrophication and 10.8. Consumption of hydrochlorofluoro­ About 1.7 million people in Norway ­Ground-level Ozone. In May 2012, they carbons (HCFCs) will be phased out by are exposed to average noise levels adopted amendments to the protocol 2010. exceeding 50 decibels outside their and agreed on new emissions cuts to homes. This ­includes noise from aircraft, be achieved by 2020. 10.9. There will be no consumption of halons, railways, industry and other commer- Norway regulates emissions to air any type of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), cial activities. For road traffic noise, only through individual discharge permits tetrachloromethane, methyl chloroform exposure to noise levels exceeding 55 for industrial facilities and through or hydrobromofluorocarbons (HBFCs). decibels is included. Almost half a ­million ­regulations under the Pollution Control Norwegians experience annoying or Act or other relevant legislation. In addi- highly annoying noise levels outside their tion, a tax and the 2008 and 2010 agree- homes, and about 200 000 of them suffer ments between the Government and a from sleep disturbance. range of trade organisations are important People are often affected by a combi­ instruments for reducing NOx emissions. nation of noise and other factors such Norway is also playing an active part in as air pollution. Noise can cause mental efforts within the International Maritime stress and physical problems. Organization (IMO) to develop effective rules to reduce emissions to air from International agreements work ­shipping. In 2008, IMO adopted new,

Local air pollution stricter limits for NOx emissions, and it The most important sources of particulate has also laid down specific limits for the

44 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Svein o f the Environment Magne Fredriksen/Ministry ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

sulphur content of fuel oil used in the Noise 10.10. By 2020, noise annoyance will be reduced by 10 % from the 1999 level. North Sea area. Under Norway’s Pollution Regulations, steps must be taken to reduce noise if 10.11. By 2020, the number of people exposed Ozone-depleting substances people are exposed to an average indoor to indoor noise levels exceeding 38 dB will Emissions of ozone-depleting noise level exceeding 42 decibels. Noise be reduced by 30 % compared with the ­substances have been depleting the from sources including industry, mo- 2005 level. Earth’s stratospheric ozone layer over tor sport and shooting ranges can be the past 30 years. Consumption of ozone- regulated under the Pollution Control Act, 10.12. Municipal, county and regional planning will help to ensure that air pollution does depleting substances has now been drasti- and the Product Control Act can be used not cause health or environmental cally reduced worldwide, but the ozone to set noise limits for various types of damage and that noise annoyance is layer is unlikely to recover completely products. Ensuring appropriate land use reduced. before 2050–70. under the Planning and Building Act is Norway too has achieved steep another important way of avoiding noise reductions in the use of ozone-depleting problems. substances, and has phased out a Noise abatement measures include number of substances. We have met facade insulation and noise screens, using our ­commitments under the Montreal low-noise technology for road surfaces, Protocol. We are also involved in its tyres and vehicles, and lowering speed f­urther development, for example in limits. More action will have be needed phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons to achieve the national targets for noise (HCFCs), which are still used in large reduction. cooling and freezing systems and in the production of insulating foam. It is important to ensure that banks of ozone- depleting substances that are no longer in use are dealt with properly and destroyed.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 45 A stable climate

Only two degrees warmer? It doesn’t sound very dramatic, but if you think how ill and feverish you feel if your own temperature is two degrees above normal, you realise that it’s no trivial matter. Climate change is probably the greatest threat humanity has ever faced.

We cannot actually say that the Earth is Arctic fox (Vulpes lagopus), wild reindeer however, we are nowhere near to achiev- sick, but combustion of fossil fuels and (Rangifer tarandus) and snowy owl (Bubo ing this. We must put in place stronger ­deforestation are certainly causing its scandiacus), may be lost for ever. policies and take more effective action. temperature to rise. Higher temperatures We need swift and deep cuts in Even a temperature rise of up to two will bring rising sea levels and more ­emissions of greenhouse gases, both degrees will have major impacts on the ­extreme weather, including heavy rainfall, globally and nationally. We must design natural environment and human society. flooding and drought. This will have national targets and instruments on the We must take action to alleviate the most ­serious implications for our way of life. basis of international goals, commitments serious impacts of climate change on Climate change is already putting and cooperation arrangements. At the future generations and other parts of the lives and societies at risk, particularly in 2009 climate summit in Copenhagen, world. This means that as well as cutting developing countries, and may result in world leaders adopted the target of emissions, we must adapt to the climate irreversible changes to ecosystems and ­keeping the increase in global tempera- change we are already witnessing and to the loss of species and habitats. Species ture below two degrees Celsius relative the changes that will be inevitable in the that are already threatened, such as the to the pre-industrial level. In practice, future.

46 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets Can the world meet its climate Figure 11.1: target? Greenhouse gas emissions in selected Researchers across the world are more countries in 2005 confident than ever before that most The projections described in the IPCC’s Fourth of the warming observed over the last Assessment Report show that global greenhouse 50 years is attributable to human activi- gas emissions may rise by 25–90 % from 2000 to ties. Measurements of greenhouse gas 2030 if no new steps are taken to cut emissions. concentrations in the atmosphere and This scenario assumes that fossil fuels will still in ice cores show that the carbon dioxide account for a substantial proportion of world

(CO2) concentration in the atmosphere energy use in 2030. The IPCC has also estimated is higher than it has been for the past how much emissions need to be cut by 2050 if we 650 000 years. Record temperatures are are to limit global warming to less than 2 degrees being observed all over the world, and Celsius. Given an estimated world population of new findings tell us that these obser­ nine billion, global emissions need to be limited

vations are no coincidence, but signs of to roughly 2 tonnes CO2 equivalents per person a changing climate. Rising temperatures (indicated by the red line in the lower figure). also mean rising sea levels, melting ­glaciers and a reduction in the extent Greenhouse gas emissions per country of the sea ice. (in million tonnes CO2 equivalents) Science also tells us it is not too late 8000

to limit global warming to levels that 7000 will avoid the most severe consequences. 6000 However, in its publication World 5000 Energy Outlook 2010, the International 4000 Energy Agency emphasised that the 3000 2000 two-degree target can only be achieved 1000 through rigorous implementation of 93 51 7 0 current ­commitments up to 2020 and China US EU India Brazil Indonesia Africa South DR Congo Norway Malawi much stronger action thereafter. Cutting Cruise ship off Svalbard. emissions sufficiently would require © Bjørn Alfthan/grida.no a far-reaching transformation of the Greenhouse gas emissions per person global energy system and a phenomenal (in million tonnes CO2 equivalents) policy push by governments worldwide. 25 Renewable energy and nuclear would have to double their share of the energy 20

mix, and oil demand would have to peak 15 2 tonnes just before 2020 and decline after that. 10 The United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, has since published 5 the report Bridging the Emissions Gap,

0 China US EU India Brazil Indonesia Africa South DR Congo Norway Malawi which also concludes that it is possible to achieve the two-degree target using exist- ing technologies, but that this will require full implementation of current commit- ments for 2020 and additional action. heat waves and a rising sea level put us all at risk, but will affect the poorest Climate change concerns us all and most ­vulnerable parts of the world Images of roads and railway tracks most ­severely. Many people who live in washed away by flash floods remind drought-ridden areas, in the major river us that even in the richest countries deltas or in low-lying coastal areas and of the world, we are vulnerable to islands may be forced to abandon their ­extreme weather. Floods, drought, homes.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 47 National targets

– A stable climate

11.1. Norway will voluntarily strengthen its Kyoto commitment by 10 percentage points, which corresponds to cutting emissions to 9 % below the 1990 level.

11.2. Norway will undertake to reduce global The impacts of climate change vary in changes in all habitat types in Norway. greenhouse gas emissions by the widely across the world. In the Arctic, It will intensify the effects of other human equivalent of 30 % of its own 1990 the temperature is rising twice as fast pressures and may result in the loss of emissions by 2020. The 2007 white paper as in the rest of the world, and dramatic biodiversity. Arctic and mountain species­ on climate policy and the 2008 agreement changes in the extent of sea ice cover and ecosystems will be particularly between the political parties concluded have been observed in recent years. vulnerable. Climate change is altering that a realistic target is to reduce These changes are intensifying global the framework for social planning in Norwegian emissions by 15–17 million warming. Melting ice and snow expose ­various ways. Areas where it was once tonnes CO2 equivalents relative to the reference scenario presented in the open water and bare ground, which safe to build may become more vulner- reflect less of the sunlight, instead able to flooding and landslides. Changes National Budget for 2007, when CO2 uptake by forest is included in line with ­absorbing it and causing further warm- in patterns of rainfall may result in greater existing rules under the Kyoto Protocol. ing. Work under the Arctic Council also inputs of pollutants, particulate matter and shows that deposition of soot particles on nutrients to many lakes and rivers. On the 11.3. If an ambitious global climate agreement snow and ice, where they absorb sunlight, other hand, higher rainfall may increase is achieved under which other developed is making a significant contribution to the profitability of the hydropower sector, countries also take on extensive obliga- tions, Norway will undertake to achieve ice melt in the Arctic and thus to global and agriculture and forestry may benefit carbon neutrality by 2030 at the latest. warming. Measurements show that the from the longer growing season. This means that Norway would have to temperature of the permafrost has risen reduce emissions by the equivalent of 100 by up to two degrees. If the permafrost What is Norway doing? % of its own emissions by 2030. melts, large quantities of methane – a Norway is working towards a legally potent greenhouse gas – may be released binding global agreement that includes 11.4. Efforts to reduce deforestation and forest from the soil, thus speeding up climate commitments by all major emitters, and degradation in developing countries will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and change even further. Monitoring of is ambitious enough to limit the rise in promote sustainable development and greenhouse gases in Svalbard has shown the global mean temperature to 2 degrees poverty reduction. a marked rise in the atmospheric concen­ Celsius above the pre-industrial level. In tration of methane in the last five years. accordance with the IPCC’s recommen- 11.5. Norwegian society will become less The annual mean temperature for dations, our goal is for global emissions vulnerable to climate change, and Norway’s mainland Norway has risen by almost to peak by 2015 at the latest, and then be adaptive capacity will be strengthened. 1 °C in the past 100 years, while annual reduced by 50–85 % by 2050 compared precipitation has risen by almost 20 %. with the 2000 level. A well-functioning 11.6. By 2020, ecosystem resilience and the contribution of biodiversity to carbon The annual mean temperature is expected global carbon market will be required stocks will be enhanced through to rise by a further 2.3 to 4.6 °C by the to meet the investment needs that will conservation and restoration, including end of this century, and annual precipita- arise in connection with the transition to restoration of at least 15 % of degraded tion by a further 5–30 %. A range of other a more climate-friendly society. The CO2 ecosystems, thus contributing to climate changes are also expected, all of which tax and the emissions trading system are change mitigation and reducing will have impacts on the environment two of the most important instruments vulnerability to climate change. and Norwegian society – rising sea level, of Norway’s national climate policy. They 11.7. Municipal, county and regional planning a longer growing season, more risk of ensure that emissions have a price, and will provide a suitable framework for a flooding and landslides, warmer seas, that it is more expensive to act in a way coordinated land-use and transport policy ocean acidification and a decrease in the that has negative impacts on the climate that contributes to low greenhouse gas duration of snow cover. than to be climate-friendly. About half of emissions and reduces the vulnerability of Climate change is expected to result all Norway’s emissions will be included in society to climate change.

48 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets © Thomas Marent

————————— Norway is supporting the world’s largest-scale climate project

Emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries make up 17.4 % or about one-sixth of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions. According to the IPCC, reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (known as REDD) is a cost-effective way of cutting emissions and at the same time maintaining biodiversity. It can also promote sustainable development and poverty reduction. Norway is playing a leading role in efforts to include REDD in a binding global climate agreement. Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative is running cooperation projects with individual countries to demonstrate systems for paying developing countries to reduce these emissions. Through UN programmes, the World Bank and regional developing banks, Norway and other donors are supporting REDD activities in more than 40 developing countries. The unique achievement of the Climate and Forest Initiative has been the establishment of performance-based payment systems in partnerships with Brazil, Indonesia and Guyana. Brazil and Indonesia alone account for more than half the world’s total emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. Norway has pledged up to NOK 6 billion to each of the two countries for documented emissions reductions and political reforms. This is encouraging policy changes. The world’s most important forests are in areas where corruption and poor governance are serious problems, and where powerful national and international commercial actors are involved in deforestation. High-level political ownership of projects is therefore extremely important. If these efforts are successful, they will bring major benefits. The emissions reductions Brazil achieved in 2010 are probably the largest-scale climate project any country has implemented.

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the emissions trading system from 2013 • an agreement between the govern- adaptive capacity. However, it also empha- onwards. ment and industries not included in sised that adaptation ­measures need to be The Government has altered the the emissions trading system for the put in place quickly to ­maintain Norway’s system for calculating purchase tax on period 2008–12 has ensured a ceiling resilience. The ­report will be followed vehicles to make vehicles with the lowest on their emissions for this period; by a white paper on climate change emissions cheaper. It is also taking steps • climate research and research adaptation. to limit the growth in road traffic and on renewable energy has been is promoting public transport, vehicles ­strengthened; with low fuel consumption and alterna- • central government planning guide- tive engine technologies. There is now lines have been adopted on municipal a ­requirement that biofuels must account climate and energy planning and on for at least 3.5 % by volume of annual sales coordinated land-use and transport of road traffic fuels. Conditions for pedes- planning. trians and cyclists must also be improved. Some other important developments are: In 2010, a government-commissioned • the Technology Centre Mongstad is report assessing Norway’s vulnerabil- under construction: this is a facility ity to climate change and the need for

for testing CO2 capture and storage ­adaptation measures concluded that technologies; ­Norway is a resilient society with high

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 49 Knowledge and geographical information

Research and monitoring provide us with a sound knowledge of the environment, which National targets is the foundation for our knowledge-based

Relevant geographical information of high quality ­environmental management regime. will be available for the whole country and will be used effectively across sectors and administrative Environmental policy must be based on The environmental authorities cooper- levels. knowledge of ecological interactions and ate with Statistics Norway on the develop- The process of registering rights to real property interactions between nature and society, ment and production of environmental and shares in housing cooperatives will be sound and the pressures and impacts associated statistics. These are largely based on data and effective and maintain a high standard. with human activities in various sectors. obtained from monitoring and reporting A sound knowledge of causal relation- systems. A great deal of effort has been ships makes it possible to evaluate the put into developing digital map solutions consequences of our actions. and systems for handling geographical Knowledge can be built up through information. research, mapping, monitoring, compi- lation of statistics and various types of Cooperating across disciplines reporting. Environmental monitoring and sectors addresses known issues and needs to be The cross-cutting nature of many envi- organised in the form of long-term, stable ronmental policy issues means that it is and predictable monitoring programmes. essential to consider the whole picture Research generates new knowledge and and find a balance between different raises new questions, but also acts as public interests to gain support for action. a useful supplement and corrective to monitoring. Mapping provides us with ————————— information on the occurrence and distri- Nature Diversity Act, bution of species and habitat types. Long time series of observations are of crucial ­section 8 (knowledge base) importance in both research and monitor- Official decisions that affect biological, ing when circumstances change. geological and landscape diversity shall, Reporting often requires information as far as is reasonable, be based on scientific to be uploaded to databases for specific knowledge of the population status of species, fields. Important databases in Norway the range and ecological status of habitat include “Naturbase” (for habitat types, types, and the impacts of environmental species, protected areas and areas set pressures. The knowledge required shall be in aside for outdoor recreation), the Species reasonable proportion to the nature of the Map Service run by the Norwegian case and the risk of damage to biological, Biodiversity Information Centre, geological and landscape diversity. “Askeladden” (the cultural heritage), Furthermore, the authorities shall attach and the Norwegian Pollutant Release importance to knowledge that is based on and Transfer Register. The KOSTRA many generations of experience acquired system for reporting and publishing local through the use of and interaction with the government information is particularly natural environment, including traditional important for the public administration. Sami use, and that can promote the conser­ vation and sustainable use of biological, geological and landscape diversity.

50 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets ————————— ————————— Environmental technology

Norway’s strategy for environmental technology was published in 2011. Its aim is to promote the development of an internationally competitive Norwegian environmental technology Cooperation across disciplines and sector and national and international markets for environmental technology. The document ­sectors is therefore essential in build- sets out steps for developing supply and demand and for improving the knowledge base for Knowledge and ing up our knowledge of environmental further policy and technology development. The largest single measure is a programme ­issues. Action taken to deal with a particu- designed to promote private investment in commercialisation of environmental technology lar environmental problem may also have and encourage networking and strategic cooperation between suppliers of systems and geographical information impacts – either negative or positive – in solutions. other areas. We therefore need research that can improve our understanding of ————————— the implications of environmental policy targets for other public interests. The environmental authorities are national ­agreements. These include the very valuable for the environmental promoting long-term development of Agreement on the European Economic authorities. expertise by providing financial support Area, under which most EU environ- to the environmental research institutes mental legislation is incorporated into Geographical information and by funding some basic research Norwegian law. It is important to ensure The Ministry of the Environment is within the research programmes run that the information provided to meet ­responsible for Norway’s mapping and by the Research Council of Norway. It is reporting obligations provides a correct ­geodata policy and the registration of essential that these institutes have the picture of the state of the environment rights to real property. The Norwegian capacity and equipment to meet the needs in Norway. Mapping Authority is responsible for of the environmental authorities. maps, geodata and cadastral information. The international perspective This includes producing and updating Communicating what we know The nature of many environmental national map series and maintaining Communicating information to the ­problems means that one country alone ­up-to-date registers. ­general public and to decision-makers cannot resolve them. The whole research The public sector, private businesses is just as important as building up the sector thus needs to become more and individual people all need geographi- knowledge base. People, the business international, and Norwegian research cal information. In many sectors, geodata ­sector, the public authorities and volun- groups and institutions must be encour- is needed for documentation, valuation, tary organisations all need sound infor- aged to take part in international activi- analyses and statistics. Furthermore, mation if they are to take environmental ties. ­Norway is ­participating fully in the commercial use of such data makes an considerations into account in their day- current EU research programme, the important contribution to value creation. to-day activities. Information is provided Seventh ­Framework Programme. This Geodata are also important in environmen- through the traditional media, websites, is organised around a number of themes, tal monitoring, in building up knowledge­ publications and the social media. For of which “environment (including cli- about the climate and environment, and example, the website Klimaløftet is being mate change)” is of most interest to the as a basis for preparedness. Modern maps used to coordinate information from the ­Norwegian environmental authorities. do more than show where things are: they public sector on climate change and what are also analytical tools, and can be used people can do to reduce their emissions. Interplay between research in planning for sustainable development. State of the Environment Norway collects and monitoring Maps and environmental geodata are together official information on environ- Research is necessary to ensure that accessible 24 hours a day, thus helping mental status and trends in Norway. we obtain the best possible monitoring the public authorities and others to make Another important task is to provide data, and monitoring data are in their sound, sustainable decisions. Reliable and information that can awaken curiosity turn an important basis for a great deal up-to-date geodata also help to improve and interest about nature and the environ- of research. Researchers’ expertise is safety at sea and on land. ment among children and young people. needed to interpret the results of moni- Norway’s 2010 Geodata Act is intended The “environmental rucksack” project is toring programmes, and the knowledge to ensure better access to environmental one of the larger initiatives targeting the gained through monitoring is very geodata in Norway and across national school sector. ­valuable in environmental research. borders. The Mapping Authority is in Displaying environmental and ­Monitoring data enable scientists to charge of the development of a national other data as maps makes the infor­ analyse environmental trends, since geographical infrastructure through the mation available­ to many user groups. the methods for obtaining the data are Norway Digital initiative. It also maintains Norway also has international report- the same over long periods of time. a register of all real property in Norway, ing obli­gations under various inter­ ­Research based on such data is therefore and a separate register of property rights.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 51 Legislation and planning procedures

The Nature Diversity Act. The precaution- ary ­principle. The Planning and Building Act. The ­polluter-pays principle. A few examples of the ­principles underlying Norway’s environ- mental policy­ and the legislative tools used by National targets the ­authorities in their work.

Norway will have a sustainable land-use policy. Municipal, county and regional planning will The environmental authorities are the principle of assessing cumulative ensure that administrative procedures are ­responsible for formulating environ­ environmental effects, which means that effective and that there is close coordination mental policy goals and strategies, and all pressures on ecosystems and species between administrative levels and sectors. for ­drawing up plans for sound man- must be considered before decisions All municipal, county and regional planning will agement of our ­environmental assets. are made under environmental or other take place within the framework of national Environmental policy has implications legislation. In addition, Norway follows policy. for almost every sector of society, and the principle that the best available tech- The Planning and Building Act and other relevant ­activities such as production, consump- niques (known as BAT) should always be legislation will be used actively to ensure that tion, construction, resource use, public applied to avoid environmental problems. environmentally sound solutions are given weight procurement and transport all have Another important principle of in local and regional development and that environmental impacts. Legislation is Norwegian environmental policy is that environmental and social impacts are properly one of the key instruments of environ- authorities, companies and other actors documented. mental policy. Important environmental in every sector have an independent statutes in Norway include the Planning responsibility to integrate environmental and Building Act, the Pollution Control considerations into their activities and to Act, the Nature Diversity Act, the Cultural play a part in achieving the overall goals Heritage Act, the Geodata Act and the of environmental policy. The authorities Svalbard Environmental Protection Act. in each sector are required to keep track Economic instruments are also becoming of the health and environmental impacts increasingly important in environmental of activities in their sector. They must also policy. report on environmental trends in their sector and on the effects of policy instru- Environmental policy ments introduced to protect the environ- – instruments and principles ment. In some cases, large-scale plans are A number of important principles underlie drawn up involving a number of sectors, Norway’s environmental policy. One of for example the integrated management these is the polluter-pays principle, which plans for the Barents Sea–Lofoten area states that anyone who causes pollution is and for the Norwegian Sea. responsible for the costs of clean-up and All policy instruments must also meet rectifying any damage. The precautionary the criteria of effectiveness and cost principle states that where there is a risk effectiveness. This means that they must that an activity will cause serious or irre­ be designed so that targets are achieved versible damage, adequate precautions without unnecessary use of time and must be taken to prevent damage, or the resources and without unacceptable activity should not be carried out. A lack impacts on other sectors. Legislation and of knowledge must not be used as a rea- the taxation system should be perceived son for postponing cost-effective meas- as reasonable and equitable and generally ures. The Nature Diversity Act introduced accepted.

52 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets

Living seas Healthy Rich and Forest Spectacular A valuable A good urban The great An Clean air A stable and coastal lakes and varied diversity mountain cultural environment outdoors unpolluted climate environments rivers wetlands landscapes heritage environment

Planning and Building Act

Geodata Act

Pollution Control Act Svalbard Environmental Protection Act

Cadastre Act

Nature Diversity Act

Outdoor Recreation Act

Oslo Forest and Countryside Act

Wildlife Act

Norwegian Nature Inspectorate Act

Off-road Motor Traffic Act

Cultural Heritage Act

Gene Technology Act

Act relating to salmonids and freshwater fish

State Commons Act

Greenhouse Gas Emission Trading Act

Environmental Information Act

Product Control Act

Important Legislation and legislation Living seas Healthy Rich and Forest Spectacular A valuable A good urban The great An Clean air A stable and coastal lakes and varied diversity mountain cultural environment outdoors unpolluted climate environments rivers wetlands landscapes heritage environment Planning and Building Act Geodata Act planning procedures Pollution Control Act Svalbard Environmental Protection Act Cadastre Act Nature Diversity Act Outdoor Recreation Act Oslo Forest and Countryside Act Wildlife Act Norwegian Nature Inspectorate Act Off-road Motor Traffic Act Cultural Heritage Act Gene Technology Act Act relating to salmonids and freshwater fish State Commons Act Greenhouse Gas Emission Trading Act Environmental Information Act Product Control Act

Planning processes and the relevant documents. The principles of ­recreation, renewable energy including ­planning system in Norway universal design must be incorporated wind power and small-scale hydropower, Through planning processes, we can into planning processes and applied in soil conservation and industrial develop- develop urban and rural communities individual building projects. In addition, ment. that are attractive to live in and that aesthetic design and the provision of good The planning system must deal with ­promote health and provide a good surroundings for children and young challenges in all parts of the country, from ­quality of life for all age groups. ­Planning ­people must be taken into consideration. towns and built-up areas to the mountains is a tool for sustainable development and The Norwegian planning system has and coastline. In the larger towns and the sound land use and resource manage- three levels: local (the municipalities), most densely populated parts of the coun- ment. ­Sustainable development means regional (the counties) and national. try, the focus is on a growing shortage d­evelopment that is in the best interests In the event of objections to municipal of space and the need for densification of individuals, society as a whole and or regional plans, there are arrangements and to retain green spaces and develop ­future generations. The 2008 Planning for mediation, and if necessary for the environmentally sound, climate-friendly and Building Act ­established tools for national authorities to make the final transport solutions. In other parts of ensuring that Norwegian society ­develops decision. Decisions and legal interpre- the country, planning is an instrument in a way that meets people’s needs, tations are made publicly available in for maintaining settlement patterns and safeguards the environment and limits electronic form, and the Ministry of the creating new employment opportunities. ­impacts on the climate. Good planning Environment publishes information and Regional and local adaptations to planning produces ­effective, environmentally advice for the planning authorities. processes are therefore essential. sound transport­ ­solutions, maintains the Planning in a number of sectors needs Planning involves cooperation across security of society and ensures adequate to be tightened up. For example, too sectors and between national, regional areas for commercial activities, schools, much development is still being permit- and local authorities. The overall frame- day care centres and other important ted along the shoreline in various parts work is determined at regional and functions. Planning is also essential to of the country. The remaining large national level, but the municipalities have ensure that biodiversity, the cultural continuous areas of natural environ- important responsibilities within this. ­heritage, valuable landscapes and impor- ment are shrinking, and valuable areas In 2011, the first Government expecta- tant agricultural areas are safeguarded of agricultural land are being developed tions for regional and municipal planning and used sustainably, in line with our for other purposes. Norway is seeking to were published. Together with central national environmental­ targets. reduce transport needs and greenhouse government planning guidelines, they The Planning and Building Act requires gas emissions, for example by avoiding will in future constitute the framework for all planning and administrative decisions the development of out-of-town shopping ­planning at all levels. to be transparent and predictable. It also centres. The Ministry of the Environment Sound knowledge about land use and stresses that all interested parties and is cooperating with other ministries and resources is an essential basis for good ­authorities must be able to take part in relevant bodies on important planning planning. It is therefore necessary to these processes. A long-term perspec- issues ­including urban development, develop a coordinated system for mapping tive is important, and environmental and ­coordinated land-use and transport and monitoring land use, and to improve social impacts must be described in the ­planning, universal design, outdoor access to maps and environmental geodata.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 53 International cooperation Nature does not respect national borders. The ­major environmental problems transcend political boundaries, and require international action.

At present, conditions on our planet are in dealing with climate change and loss suitable both for people and for a rich of biodiversity. In recent years, there has National targets variety of other living creatures. But the been growing awareness of the impor- environment is being altered by climate tance of ecosystems such as forests and Norway will play a leading role in efforts to change, loss of biodiversity and the wetlands for human welfare and ­survival. develop new and stricter environmental spread of pollutants, making the future Despite this, large-scale destruction of agreements, particularly at global level. uncertain for many species, including our these ecosystems is continuing in all parts Policies and the development of legislation own. And of course everything on Earth of the world. in the EU and European Economic Area should is connected to everything else. Climate Conservation of ecosystems and result in high environmental standards and thus change affects both the natural and the biodiversity and effective measures to promote sustainable development. cultural environment. Grain varieties that tackle climate change are key elements Norway will work to ensure that global and are staple crops at present may become of a green economy. A related concept, regional cooperation bodies in the environmental unsuitable in parts of the world as the sustainable development, was placed field, including the UN Environment Programme climate changes. Unstable food supplies firmly on the agenda at the 1992 Earth (UNEP), are developed into effective tools for and extreme weather may lead to mass Summit in Rio. In the 20 years since then, developing and implementing environmental policy. migrations and a rise in the global level the world has changed dramatically. The of conflict. economy and the business sector have The international trade and investment regime Environmental problems affect become globalised. Countries are bound should provide for the use of environmental countries all over the world, and inter- by common rules, including EU rules policy instruments and promote environmental and sustainable development concerns. national action is needed to deal with at regional level and rules developed by them. Individual countries cannot tackle the World Trade Organization at global Norway will engage in strategic political dialogue such problems on their own. For example, level. Most EU environmental legisla- with partner countries and assist these countries the polar regions are being seriously tion is incorporated into Norwegian law to enhance their capacity and willingness to ­affected by climate change and persistent, through the Agreement on the European undertake and implement international commitments. bioaccumulative and toxic substances Economic Area (EEA). transported from distant parts of the International cooperation to promote Norway’s development policy will contribute to world. Environmental policy is increas- an ambitious environmental policy needs greener development and to the development ingly being developed within the frame- to take place both within organisations of capacity and expertise in environmental and work of international agreements. In that focus mainly on the environment natural resource management. today’s globalised economy, the drivers and within those that determine the Limit environmental impacts of human activity of social development and environmental framework for development in other and the risk of such impacts in the High North change are also becoming more and more sectors. Countries such as China, India, and the polar regions. international. Russia and Brazil have far more influence than only a few years ago, and this must Main challenges ahead also be taken into account. Since 1992, Through international cooperation, it has the global balance of power has changed been possible to reverse some negative radically, both as regards environmental trends – for example as regards acid rain policy and in other policy areas. and depletion of the ozone layer. This shows that international agreements can Environmental cooperation be a very effective way of addressing ­under the UN umbrella ­serious environmental problems. Howev- Global environmental governance needs er, we have not yet had the same success to be strengthened. A report from the

54 Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets Important Living seas Healthy Rich and Forest Spectacular A valuable A good urban The great An Clean air A stable legislation and coastal lakes and varied diversity mountain cultural environment outdoors unpolluted climate environments rivers wetlands landscapes heritage environment Planning and Building Act Geodata Act Pollution Control Act Svalbard Environmental Protection Act Cadastre Act Nature Diversity Act Outdoor Recreation Act Oslo Forest and Countryside Act Wildlife Act Norwegian Nature Inspectorate Act Off-road Motor Traffic Act Cultural Heritage Act Gene Technology Act Act relating to salmonids and freshwater fish State Commons Act Greenhouse Gas Emission Trading Act Environmental Information Act Product Control Act

Important

International conventions Living seas Health y Rich a nd Fore st Spectacu lar A valua ble A good urban The gre at A n Clean air A sta ble and coastal lakes and varied diversity mountain cultural environment outdoors unpolluted climate environments rivers wetlands landscapes heritage environment Climate Change Convention

Vienna Convention cooperation LRTAP Convention

Stockholm Convention Rotterdam Convention

Basel Convention

Convention on Biological Diversity

Bonn Convention

Bern Convention

CITES Convention RAMSAR Convention

NASCO Convention

OSPAR Convention

Polar Bear Agreement

Aarhus Convention

Espoo Convention

UN Secretary-General published in an equal footing and mutually supportive. with China, India, Brazil and South Africa,

2010 pointed out that progress has been Specific environmental provisions in free all of which are key actors in terms of

slowest as regards the environmental trade agreements can be an important their impact on the environment and in

pillar of sustainable development. At the way of ensuring this. policy development internationally. The

Rio+20 summit in 2012, steps were taken cooperation includes various environ­

to strengthen the position of the United The EU, the EEA and environmental mental topics and also provides a forum Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, policy for environmental policy dialogue. In the as the UN’s most important environment Most EU environmental legislation is field of development cooperation, the policy body. The “Beyond GDP” initiative, ­incorporated into Norwegian law under Ministry of the Environment and the corporate sustainability reporting and the the EEA Agreement. These rules are also Ministry of Foreign Affairs work together Sustainable Energy for All initiative will important in trade with third countries, on climate change adaptation, for example be followed up as part of green economy for example in chemicals and timber. relating to food security, and on the Clean policies. One important outcome was the In recent years, stronger interaction Energy for Development and Oil for establishment of a process to develop sus- has developed between the EU and the ­Development initiatives. tainable development goals to supplement multilateral environmental agreements. the Millennium Development Goals. In some situations, the EU wishes to The High North and the polar i­ntroduce more ambitious rules than regions Environmental agreements and those agreed through international The climate is changing rapidly in these financing for global environmental ­consensus. The inclusion of aviation in regions, and the impacts are already targets the EU emissions trading system in 2012 ­obvious. This is resulting in growing Norway aims to play a leading role in the is one example. ­pressure as a result of easier access development of global and regional agree- and increasing interest in exploiting ments and to lead the way in implement- Nordic cooperation and the OECD the ­natural resources of these areas. ing these agreements at national level. The Nordic countries cooperate in ­various Cooperation with Russia is a key element The Global Environment Facility, GEF, areas, including chemicals, green econo- of the Government’s High North policy. is an important mechanism for providing my and valuation of ecosystem services. Important topics include the marine funding for projects to improve the global The green economy, valuation of eco- ­environment, climate change, cross-­ environment. system services and climate change are border cooperation and pollution from also important fields of analysis for the industrial plants near the border. Other Trade, investment and environment Organization for Economic Cooperation important forums for cooperation are the A challenging task in the time ahead will and Development (OECD). Arctic Council and the Barents coopera- be to ensure that the major trade and in- tion. Norway has a special responsibility vestment flows support the development Development cooperation and for protecting Svalbard’s natural wilder­ of a green economy and do not under- bilateral environmental cooperation ness. The archipelago is becoming mine environmental policy. Environmental The Ministry of the Environment has increasingly important as a reference area and trade rules must continue to be on environmental cooperation arrangements for climate and environmental research.

Norwegian Ministry of the Environment – Norway’s Environmental Targets 55 Photo front cover: ©Bård Bredesen/Naturarkivet.no

Published by: Norwegian Ministry of the Environment Order free paper copy: [email protected] Publication number: T-1508 E ISBN 978-82-457-0463-1 Design: Miksmaster as Print: Andvord Grafisk AS 09/2012 – number printed 2000