Environmental challenges in the Geirangerfjord World Heritage Site
Information from Stranda Hamnevesen KF regarding Geiranger.
The Geirangerfjord is globally unique and in July 2005 was inscribed on the UNESCO List of Natural World Heritage Sites in recognition and confirmation of the importance of our local natural heritage. However, this carries with it certain obligations, and there has been much focus on the Geirangerfjord concerning a number of areas and challenges related to port-based activities.
The West Norwegian Fjords landscape is extremely vulnerable owing to its climate, and problems concerning a lack of regulations with regard to discharges and emissions, high sulphur content of fuel oil, and periodically heavy traffic.
The Stranda Hamnevesen port authority has a responsibility, in collaboration with local players, customers and partners, to ensure that traffic arrangements and environmental considerations in the Geirangerfjord are taken care of.
Bearing in mind the environmental challenges the Geirangerfjord already has, Stranda Hamnevesen deems it correct and appropriate to limit the number of calls by ships.
For 2008 Stranda Hamnevesen KF has adopted the following restrictions:
Total gross tonnage in the Geirangerfjord at any one time shall not exceed GRT 150 000/approx. 5000 passengers, irrespective of the four anchorages that currently exist.
Vessels which have waste incinerators on board are required to switch them off when entering the port district.
Tenders are required to turn off their engines at the ship?s side and at the quayside.
Stranda Hamnevesen looks forward to a good working relationship and a shared focus on dealing with the environmental challenges we have.
We have every confidence that we will be able to develop the destination to the benefit of all parties, through good communication and co-operation.
