25M NOK til oljevernsenter

The Norwegian government proposes to allocate 25 million NOK in 2021 for planning a new test center for oil spill response technology at Fiskebøl in Vesterålen. With increased knowledge and expertise, we are better equipped to protect the ocean against various dangers, said Minister of Transport, Knut Arild Hareide (KrF).

Økt behov ved kysten

The need for the center arises from the increase in ship traffic and maritime activities in the northernmost areas of the country, making it crucial for Norway to lead in managing marine litter and oil spills along the coast. The government is building upon the expertise of the Centre for Oil Spill Preparedness and Marine Environment, established in 2018 with a base in Lofoten, and the Norwegian Coastal Administration, which is the authority in acute pollution cases.

52M NOK til kompetansesenter

In the 2021 budget proposal, the government suggests setting aside approximately 52 million NOK over the Ministry of Transport's budget for the center, doubling the amount compared to the 2020 budget. Of this, 25 million NOK is allocated for the startup of the establishment of the testing facilities. The Centre for Oil Spill Preparedness and Marine Environment aims to be a national and international competence center that promotes the development of cost-effective and environmentally friendly technologies, methods, and measures against oil spills and marine litter.