Climate
Climate change is already impacting the whole world. Emissions of greenhouse gases from human activity have changed the world’s atmosphere. Now we must act to limit the damages.
The greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere has historically changed dramatically since people started extracting and burning fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas). In particular, the greenhouse gases CO2 and methane are the driving forces of global warming which enhances the natural greenhouse effect.
Climate change affects all weather systems on the planet. Effects such as melting sea ice, more extreme weather events such as droughts or floods, forest fires, and warmer oceans have dramatic effects for global ecosystems.
In Norway, we see effects of climate change in species wandering north, glaciers melting, permafrost areas changing and the growing season extending. To avoid the most serious consequences of climate change, the global temperature increase must be kept under 1.5 celcius above pre-industrial levels. This means that all greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels and deforestation must be stopped as soon as possible.
Natural disasters and climate changes are also deeply unfair. Those who have contributed least to climate change are already dealing with the consequences.This means that countries in the Global south will experience tougher consequences that may lead to water shortages, reduced crops and longer periods of drought. Countries that already have a deferred topography, such as very dry and very wet areas, will experience greater consequences than temperate areas. The richest of us also have an easier time adapting to climate change than those with fewer abilities and resources.
Efforts to reduce emissions must contribute to the large scale transition from a fossil fuel dependent economy to a low-carbon society.
Our position
In order to solve the problem of climate change, we must change the social structures making fossil fuels necessary today. This means that we must phase out fossil fuels, invest in renewable energy and energy reduction and develop and adopt new and clean technology.
Norway must stop exploration for more oil and gas, and start a planned phase-out of oil and gas activity in line with the Paris agreement and principles of a just transition.
As one of the richest countries in the world, Norway should be a driving force in international climate cooperation and act on our historical responsibility. In accordance with the Paris agreement, Norway must reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as least 55 percent in 2030 and contribute to climate financing in lower income countries.
Natural ecosystems must be protected, so that they can adapt to climate changes. We must keep large natural carbon sinks such as bogmire, wetlands, forests, oceans and other types of nature which can store large amounts of carbon.
Norway must also show international climate solidarity by providing significant contributions to the development of low carbon societies in other parts of the world.
Contact: Holger Schlaupitz, hs@naturvernforbundet.no