Nordisk ministerråd

                                                                                           Sjekkes mot fremføring

Ministers,

Ambassadors,

Distinguished Guests,

The Nordic countries share deep bonds.

Our histories and cultures are intertwined.

And our economies are closely connected through trade.

We also share ambitious goals for the green transition.

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For Norway, the maritime industry is one of our most important industries. It is a cornerstone of our economy and society, contributing significantly to value creation and employment.

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The maritime industry is indispensable for all ocean industries.

It is vital for transport of goods and for people.

This means that shipping is also a major source of greenhouse gas emissions.

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Norway has ambitious climate goals.

We are committed to reducing emissions by at least 50 percent.

Aiming for 55 percent by 2030.

And reducing emissions between 90 and 95 percent by 2050.

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Achieving these targets, requires significant cuts in emissions from all sectors and industries, including shipping.  

The targets will not be easy to achieve.

But we do not see the green transition as just a challenge.

It is also an opportunity to promote sustainable value creation, innovation, and create new green jobs.

To succeed, we must develop robust markets for zero- and low- emission solutions in shipping.

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The Norwegian government’s approach combines strong international engagement with targeted domestic action.

At the IMO, Norway strongly supports the ongoing work to establish a global framework that ensure we reach the  climate ambitions.

We have adopted the extension of the EU Emissions Trading System[1] to cover emissions from shipping.

And we will implement the FuelEU Maritime Regulation.

At home, we have established a comprehensive climate policy for this sector.

As a foundation, it is built on the polluter-pays-principle.  

Therefore, domestic shipping and fisheries pay a CO2-tax on emissions that are not covered by the Fuel EU ETS.

We are also adopting segment-specific regulations:

From 1 January 2025, all new domestic ferry contracts will include zero-emission requirement.

For offshore vessels and aquaculture service vessels, emission requirements will be in place by the end of 2025.

Ample funding is provided for research and development.

Something that has accelerated the introduction of green technologies on board vessels and in harbours.

We also believe in closer cooperation with the industry and are in dialogue on entering a Maritime Climate Partnership.

This will be a platform to identify barriers and discuss solutions that speed up the green transition.

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Dear friends,

Norway deeply values Nordic cooperation.

In the green transition, collaboration between industry, governments, and across borders, is essential.

By pooling our knowledge and experience, we reduce risks and amplify our impact.

I would like to commend DNV, and everyone involved, for this invaluable work.

The findings and proposals will help promote green shipping in the Nordics.

Thank you for your attention!

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[1] ETS