Theme -

Key figures:

8 per cent increase in greenhouse gas emissions 1990-2010

2.8 per cent reduction in the emissions of NO_x (nitrogen oxide) 1990-2010. Still 19 per cent above the limit set in the Gothenburg Protocol

1 per cent increase in emissions of NMVOCs in 2009-2010; Gothenburg Protocol target is reached

63 per cent reduction in SO₂ emissions 1990-2010; Gothenburg Protocol target is reached

Explanation of terms

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is the most important greenhouse gas. Emissions are particularly linked to oil and gas production, but are also generated from various chemical processes in the manufacturing industries.
The Kyoto Protocol determines the ceiling for the industrialised nations' emission of greenhouse gases for the period 2008-2012. Norway can increase its emission by 1 per cent in relation to the level in 1990 once account has been taken of quota deals and the other Kyoto mechanisms.
In the Gothenburg Protocol, the emission obligations are based on nature's critical levels for acidic precipitation and ground level ozone in the relevant area. The protocol includes sulphur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides NO_X, volatile organic compounds (NMVOC) and ammonia (NH₃).

Focus on:

The climate and air pollution

Emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases contribute to enhancement of the greenhouse effect created by man. As a first step to limiting the greenhouse effect, Norway has, via the Kyoto Protocol, undertaken obligations for the development of greenhouse gas emissions. In the Gothenburg Protocol, emissions ceiling are set for several other air pollutants.

In 2010, carbon dioxide accounted for 85 per cent of the total greenhouse gas emissions, compared with 70 per cent in 1990.

The oil and gas industries, manufacturing and road traffic are the most important sources of CO₂ emissions.

The NO_x emissions are still above the target in the Gothenburg Protocol because of growth in the emissions from manufacturing industries, energy supply, shipping, motor equipment and oil and gas activity.

Emissions of SO₂ were in 2010 below the target for 2010 in the Gothenburg Protocol despite increased emissions during the last year.

The manufacturing industry, wood-burning and road traffic are important sources of emissions of several heavy metals and organic environmental toxins.