Loading report
Loading report
Are we moving in the right direction?
The total quantity of waste increased by approximately 48 per cent between 1995 and 2008, while the gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 44 per cent during the same period. The main cause is a substantial rise in industrial waste, which constitutes 80 per cent of the total waste. Household waste grew faster than GDP during the entire period. Figures from Statistics Norway show that from 2007 to 2008 the total quantity of waste increased more than the growth in the Norwegian GDP. This goes against the national target which states that the growth in waste shall be considerably lower than the growth in the economy.
Economic growth, or growth in production and consumption, is the key driving force behind the escalating waste volumes. Larger homes, higher housing standards, frequent decoration and reconstruction, and increased spending on furniture and household appliances are typical examples of how affluence generates waste. Our lifestyle also dictates how much waste we produce. A hectic schedule makes disposable products attractive, and buying new products can be more appealing than repair.
The central government authorities have put in place a number of policy instruments including legislation, taxes and economic incentives targeted at the municipalities, business and industry. So far, we have seen a positive effect with regard to waste recovery and reduced emissions from waste treatment. The full effect of the policy instruments is expected to increase. This particularly applies to initiatives that require re-adjustment by the municipalities, businesses, and a change in people’s habits and customs. However, there is concern with the recent development and the need for new measures to reach the national target is concidered.