The Vice Mayor for Environment and Transport
Vice Mayor for Environment and Transport Sirin Hellvin Stav (Green Party).
Priorities
On the pathway to becoming a fossil free city
Norway’s capital Oslo leads the way in showcasing that the climate challenges must be solved in cooperation between local authorities, civil society and the business sector. Oslo’s target is to halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and become fossil-free by 2030. Significant strategies in order to succeed are to improve accessibility and the capacity in the public transport system and to reduce car traffic into the city with 20 per cent. Oslo will facilitate zero-emission transportation and good energy solutions to allow more people to make green choices.
A bike-friendly city for all
Biking shall be safe for adults and children alike. The network of bike roads will become more coherent and accessible. This will allow a larger share of the population to use and enjoy the bike as a means of transportation. The City Government has given increased attention to keeping well-maintained bike roads and lanes throughout the year to improve security and accessibility. 60 kilometers of bike roads/lanes will be built on a network of prioritized stretches. The target is to increase the share of bikers to 25 per cent by 2025.
Oslo - green and vibrant city
To make Oslo an even better place to live, it is vital that the inhabitants have easy access to clean air and clean water, green and pulsating public spaces and access to the fjord. The air quality in the inner city will improve as traffic into the city center is reduced. The City Government wants to introduce low-emission zones in areas with particularly bad air quality. The project “Car-free City” will make possible a more vibrant city center, where cyclists and pedestrians are prioritised over cars. A city center where the car no longer has priority will ensure a better environment and provide more space for city life, commerce and cultural experiences.
Integrated waste management system
Oslo has introduced a circular management system for waste and wastewater. The waste sorted at source by the citizens is a part of a circle where waste is turned into biogas and bio-fertilizers, new plastic products and green energy. The goal is for even more people separate their waste. The City Government also wishes to focus on new consumer behavior where lending, sharing and renting is becoming more common. Oslo’s waste incineration plant is nominated as a candidate to become a national industrial pilot for carbon capture. Carbon capture at the plan will be a significant contribution to reach Oslo’s climate targets.
A safe city
With a growing population the City needs to be aware of potential changes in risks and vulnerabilities. The Fire- and rescue services must be continuously improved and developed to ensure sufficient emergency-preparedness. To make sure the inhabitants and visitors feel safe in public spaces in Oslo the City is working to improve street lighting and ensure presence of visible City Wardens.