The Norwegian government is poised to impose zero-emission regulations on cruise ships sailing the Norwegian fjords.
The proposal was originally suggested in 2018, but the government acknowledged that the technology would still need to be developed, reports The Maritime Executive.
Norway’s parliament has now finalised the regulations, to be implemented by January 1, 2026 for ships and ferries under 10 000 gross tonnes. For larger cruise ships, the rule will apply from January 1, 2032.
Norway’s Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen acknowledged that sufficient technology did not yet exist for the largest ships.
The parliament will also implement a rule that ships must use shore power when available. The government will invest in this technology and install shore power in Flam, a popular stop for cruises visiting the fjords.
“The goal is to preserve the spectacular fjords and create sustainable tourism,” said Eriksen. The government expects that the regulations will force cruise lines to develop the necessary technology to reduce emissions.
