Zero-emission requirements for the World Heritage fjords adopted
The zero-emission requirement for the World Heritage fjords will take effect on 1 January 2026 for passenger vessels of less than 10,000 gross tonnage. The Norwegian Maritime Authority has adopted the new provisions on behalf of the Ministry of Climate and Environment.
WORLD HERITAGE FJORDS: The zero-emission requirement is established under the Environmental Safety Regulations and has been determined by the Government. The Norwegian Maritime Authority initiated this work in 2018.
“The process of developing zero-emission requirements for the World Heritage fjords has been long and demanding, both for the industry and for the Norwegian Maritime Authority. Now that new provisions been adopted, it is important to highlight that they provide the clarity the industry has long awaited. This ensures predictability and offers the opportunity to comply with the requirements”, says Alf Tore Sørheim, Director General of Shipping and Navigation.
From 1 January 2026, the zero-emission requirement for the World Heritage fjords will apply to passenger ships of less than 10,000 gross tonnage.
From 1 January 2032, the requirement will also apply to passenger ships of 10,000 gross tonnage and upwards.
Biogas and shore power
The Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, describes the legislation as a significant breakthrough for the World Heritage fjords.
"The zero-emission requirement will contribute to technological development and lower emissions, while also ensuring that the spectacular World Heritage fjords remain attractive tourist destinations," says the Minister in the press release for the Ministry of Climate and Environment.
In addition, the Government has determined that passenger ships may use biogas as an alternative fuel, and that the use of shore power will be mandatory where such facilities are available.
Use of biogas as an alternative fuel
When biogas is used as an alternative fuel, it must be kept separate from fossil fuels until it is bunkered.
In addition, the biogas must be bunkered within the final month before the ship enters the World Heritage fjords, and the amount bunkered must correspond to the amount expected to be used during the voyage though the fjords.
Biogas sourced from the gas grid, accompanied by a certificate based on a mass balance system, does not meet the requirements for operating in the World Heritage fjords.
EU requirements for greenhouse gas reduction
The zero-emission requirement is technology-neutral and does not prescribe specific solutions.
It is up to the operators in the World Heritage fjords to use energy sources that do not emit carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) during use. However, when such energy sources are used, there are requirements for greenhouse gas emission reductions, in accordance with the EU regulatory framework.
Read the Circular "Adoption of zero-emission requirements for cruise ships, tourist boats and ferries in the World Heritage fjords".