The purpose of the meeting, initiated by The Government of Norway and IMO (International Maritime Organization) is to prepare recommendations, based on new technological developments, on how further to reduce air pollution from ships.
Minister of Environment Ms Helen Bjørnøy,
Secretary-general of the IMO Efthimios E.
Mitropoulos and Director General of Nor-
wegian Shipowners' Association Marianne
Lie. Foto: Ministryof Environment.

- I am sure the IMO will be able to establish emission limits which contribute to improved environmental quality, said Ms Bjørnøy in her opening speech.

Air pollution is one of the major environmental challenges. Health and environmental effects caused by air pollution call for further action both nationally and internationally. Norway is particularly concerned about damages to the eco system caused by acid rain.

- International cooperation trough protocols under the Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution have been very successful. Likewise we must succeed to reduce air pollution from ships, said the Minister.

Ms Helen Bjørnøy further emphasised the importance of setting targets in order to trigger technology.

Secretary-general of the IMO Efthimios E. Mitropoulos was present at the opening of the meeting and delivered a welcome address.

Contact: Senior Advisor Sveinung Oftedal 22 24 56 79

Read the keynote speech