Oslofjord Plan faces criticism over binding measures and kelp loss

The Grandparents' Climate Action (BKA) has submitted a formal response to the proposed Oslofjord Plan, a government action plan designed to improve the environmental condition of the fjord. The group emphasizes the critical role of the blue forest—specifically kelp, seaweed, and seagrass—which captures over 22 million tons of CO2 annually along the Norwegian coast. They note that the Oslofjord has lost approximately 21% of its kelp forest in recent years, reducing its annual carbon sequestration capacity by about 1 million tons of CO2.

While BKA supports the government's consideration of transferring municipal authority regarding shoreline exemptions to the State Administrator to prevent further development, they criticize the plan's fundamental weaknesses. Specifically, they argue that the proposed measures are not legally binding and rely on voluntary participation from municipalities and other actors. They express concern that the plan lacks strong target formulations and sufficient financial backing, given the economic constraints facing many local municipalities.