Zero-Emission Requirements for Passenger Ships in World Heritage Fjords

'This is an important breakthrough for our World Heritage fjords. The zero-emission requirement will contribute to technological development and lower emissions, while also ensuring that the spectacular World Heritage fjords remain attractive tourist destinations', said Minister of Climate and Environment Andreas Bjelland Eriksen.

What does this mean in practice?

• From January 1st, the zero-emission requirement will apply to all passenger ships under 10,000 gross tons.
• For larger passenger ships, the same requirement applies from January 1st, 2032.
• As an alternative, passenger ships can use biogas, but it must be kept separate from fossil fuels until it is bunkered, i.e. during the process of loading the fuel onto the ship.
• Ships must use shore power where it is available.

Protecting World Heritage Fjord Landscapes 

The requirements will apply to the five World Heritage fjords: Nærøyfjord, Aurlandsfjord, Geirangerfjord, Sunnylvsfjord, and Tafjord. These are part of the West Norwegian Fjord Landscape, which is one of eight Norwegian areas on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Norway is thus committed to managing the fjords in the best possible way.

The Norwegian Parliament has decided that zero-emission requirements for tourist ships and ferries will be introduced by 2026, while ensuring that the World Heritage fjords continue to receive ports calls. To ensure continued access and since sufficient technology for the largest ships is not yet available, the zero-emission requirements will be introduced gradually.

The Parliament also decided that the state shall ensure the establishment of shore power in Flåm. The government has therefore allocated NOK 100 million in support to Aurland Port Authority in the 2025 state budget, which Enova has been given a special mandate to administer.

The regulation is available here:  Amendments to Regulations on environmental safety for ships and mobile offshore units.docx.docx