Zero-emission regulations in World Heritage fjords adopted by Norwegian parliament

#world heritage #climate change #UNESCO #mitigation

Among 8 world heritages sites in Norway, only one of them is natural world heritage, the West Norwegian Fjords - Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord (2005). Fjord, a word of Norwegian origin, refers to a long, deep inlet of the sea between high cliffs formed by submergence of a glaciated valley. These inscribed sites is a popular destination for cruise ships, leading to increased traffic and high air pollution and is increasingly considered a health hazard for the local community.

The Norwegian Parliament recently adopted a resolution to halt emissions from cruise ships and ferries in this area by 2026 at the latest. This will make the fjords among the world's first zero emission zones at sea. More than 60 electrical ferries are expected to go seaborne in Norway over the next few years. The decision is expected to have a positive impact on the local population, transport and tourism, climate and broader fjord environment, as well as the maritime industry.