After Kyoto - and the Implications for the Energy Industry

摘要

This presentation discusses some conclusions arrived at in the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). From an international political perspective, the Kyoto Protocol was a major achievement. As a follow- up, WBCS will focus on how business can help to make the agreements work and contribute further to those issues, which were left open at Kyoto. Kyoto has moved the climate issue from a general policy debate to quantified emission targets for 38 countries and established principles for a framework for action. WBCSD encourages a global perspective on climate change and wants to make market-based policies as effective as possible. Innovation will be a key to success. Some of the major environmental challenges the last two decades that have been handled internationally are acid rain, ozone-depleting substances, and emissions that cause local environmental damage. Successful industrial companies have shown their ability to achieve ambitious goals related to environmental performance. These achievements are also relevant with respect to the development of environmentally sound solutions and practices regarding the greenhouse gases. Individual companies should encourage the free flow of best practices, stimulate creativity, and adapt their strategies to environmental 'realities'. An example of the transformation of these statements into action is Norsk Hydro's Hydrokraft, a gas-fired power plant concept. Greenhouse gas emission trading will promote technology development and the implementation of cost-effective solutions. Joint Implementation and especially the Clean Development Mechanism will occur mainly through work on technology transfer. Finally, the presentation discusses some specific Norwegian issues. 3 figs.