Wide variations
In the last 20 years, releases of chemicals from the oil and gas industry have been reduced, while discharges of oil have remained relatively stable. Releases of some well-known hazardous substances are being reduced, but both these and new substances are still present in the environment. Releases from agriculture, fish farming, municipal waste water and industry will continue to cause eutrophication in many areas. Acidification of river systems is still a problem in southern parts of Norway, and the problems will persist for many years to come.
Integrated management of water resources
Norway’s legislation provides a framework for managing, protecting and improving our water resources. At both national and international level, work is in progress to reduce releases of pollutants that result in poor water quality. The oil and gas industry and other industries are being required to phase out the use of environmentally harmful substances and develop environmentally sound technology.