Norway’s Rivers are in Trouble
Norway’s Rivers are in trouble. What is happening and what can you do?
Norway’s rivers have long been considered the best in Europe and maybe even the world in most metrics, for their beauty, biodiversity, accessibility and amongst outdoor enthusiasts for their rafting, kayaking and fishing. Norway’s government recognised this back in the 1970s and for the last 50 years, around 390 of their most valuable river ecosystems were protected by law. This could change next week.
Earlier this week Norwegian Parliament’s Standing Committee on Energy and the Environment has proposed removing this historic protection of Norway’s rivers. Norway’s parliament is set to vote on this on Tuesday 11th February and currently, all major parties are supporting this legislation.
Due to pre-existing hydropower plants, Norway is already self-sufficient for its energy, but new developments are being justified by the need to supply Europe’s growing energy demand and under the guise of flood prevention.
From the outside, it seems this proposed legislation is ridiculous. Just two years ago Norway committed to protect at least 30% of the world’s land and water areas and to restore 30% of degraded ecosystems by 2030. A vote to remove protection of these rivers would undoubtedly be a huge step backwards for the nature and outdoor culture of Norway.
What can you do to help?
The river community is unsurprisingly up in arms about this and has mobilised. Teams from across the board are fighting, but you can help too.
The easiest step you can take is to sign this petition. But let’s be real, a petition is small fry against a government. There is more you can do to help.
We have prepared a press release, with information and photos that we can send out to journalists, influencers and politicians. If you’re Norwegian, you can reach out to your local politician or newspaper. If you’re not Norwegian, we encourage you to contact journalists in your country to raise awareness about the issue. This issue is big, and is starting to be picked up by the international press. If Norwegian politicians see this gathering storm in the news, they might pause before voting on this issue.
Another effective action is engaging on social media. Share posts, use hashtags, and tag decision-makers to make your voice heard. The more international attention this issue receives, the more pressure there will be on Norwegian politicians to reconsider their stance.
If you are part of an environmental or outdoor organization, encourage them to take a stand. Many advocacy groups have international networks that can amplify the message and put pressure on lawmakers.
Finally, if you are in Norway or able to travel, consider joining local demonstrations and events being organized to protest the decision. A visible and vocal public opposition could make all the difference.
The fate of Norway’s rivers is at a critical juncture. This is not just about Norway’s nature; it is about the global precedent it sets for environmental protection and sustainable energy practices. Now is the time to act. Together, we can ensure that these rivers remain wild and free for generations to come.
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