The Geirangerfjord, protecting the environment
The Geirangerfjord and surrounding area have prepared a strategy in relation to the increased focus on environmental problems caused by tourist traffic in the area. The pollution of the physical environment, both on land and at sea, has received significant media attention in recent years. The Geirangerfjord is recognised for its status as an area of natural heritage, and we must therefore exercise extra caution when it comes to potential sources of pollution. We must also examine and identify relevant initiatives which may help us reduce pollution or the risk of pollution.
Stranda Hamnevesen KF (Stranda Port Authority), Stiftinga Geirangerfjorden Verdsarv (the Geirangerfjord World Heritage Association) and Destinasjon Geirangerfjord (Destination Geirangerfjord), have now joined forces to work on an environmental project targeting new environmentally-friendly technology, innovation and administration.
Simultaneously with our investigations and reports, we will be seeking to recruit contributors to a major specific project. It is important to ensure that all such activities have local roots.
Challenge no. 1 in the Geirangerfjord area is, in principle, the overall traffic situation, the quality of air and emissions, including bus traffic.
Challenge no. 2 is the constant emergence of negative and partly incorrect claims about the physical environment in the area.
Stranda Hamnevesen KF has established both individual projects and joint projects which target solutions to the challenges faced in this area. These include:
- Cooperation with cruise ship owners who have already executed different environmental initiatives
- Charting requirements
- Ensuring satisfactory documentation
- Completion of Hellesylt quay by 2011
- Completion of Stranda quay by 2011
- Geiranger – ensuring completion of new disembarkation facilities in Geiranger by utilising new quay technology. An ongoing project.
- Maintain good cooperation with the pilot master in relation to anchoring and mooring
- Geiranger – offer environmentally friendly tender facilities within short period of time (electrical, hydrogen and/or hybrid) in cooperation with supplier
- Continue efforts from 2007 on control of traffic entering the area
- Participate in the “Early Warning system” led by Cruise Norway AS
- Cooperation with local tour operators in order to improve logistics on shore
One main goal is for Geiranger, and possibly other areas, to have the first electric small boats, scooters and cars within 1-2 years. The plan is for short-term hire to private users. We hope this can and will contribute towards a change in behaviour and positive perceptions of the use of electrical transport, which in turn provides immediate reductions in hazardous emissions.
Geiranger 16 February 2010
Port Director
