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How Does Sweden Succeed in Emissions Reduction Combined with Economic Growth?

Tor Kjølberg

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August 21, 2024

How Does Sweden Succeed in Emissions Reduction Combined with Economic Growth?

Sweden has emerged as a standout example in Europe, proving that substantial economic growth and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions can go hand-in-hand. How does Sweeden succeed in emissions reduction combined with economic growth?

Sweden’s success in reducing emissions while achieving economic growth is often highlighted as a model for sustainable development. The country’s approach can be understood through several key factors:

Carbon Taxation

Sweden introduced a carbon tax in 1991, one of the first countries to do so. This tax incentivizes businesses and individuals to reduce fossil fuel consumption by making it more expensive. Over time, the carbon tax has been increased, covering a wide range of sectors. The revenue generated is often reinvested in renewable energy projects and other environmental initiatives.

From Europe and the US to Brazil and Indonesia, countries around the world are looking into carbon pricing to reduce emissions. However, only until recently, there has been limited evidence on whether it has effectively reduced firm carbon emissions.

Carbon pricing accounts for at least a third of emissions reduction between 1991-2015 in Sweden. Without it, emissions would have been 30% higher, underscoring the importance of effective carbon pricing policies in the global fight against climate change.

The country already emitted five times less carbon dioxide, or CO2, per capita than the European average back in 1990. Since then, Sweden has reduced its net greenhouse gas emissions by another 80%, while the average reduction in the EU has only been 30%.

“You don’t need to reduce welfare to reduce your climate impact,” said Mattias Goldmann, founder of the Swedish 2030-secretariat, who works towards Sweden reaching its climate target for the national transport sector.

Investment in Renewable Energy

Sweden has heavily invested in renewable energy sources, particularly hydropower, wind power, and bioenergy. As of recent years, around 54% of Sweden’s energy consumption comes from renewables. This investment has reduced the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lowered its greenhouse gas emissions.

But it wasn’t just hitting the natural resources jackpot that got the country to where it is now. Sweden realized its natural potential early on and started investing in renewable energy sources much earlier than many other countries.

“Sweden has had hydropower for more than a century,” according to Goldmann.

Sweden has some natural advantages. 70% of Sweden is forest land. And forests are very useful when it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions because they remove CO2 from the atmosphere.

Sweden is at the forefront of the endeavor to tackle climate change through clean energy innovations and prides itself on a domestic energy value chain that is 98 per cent carbon-free. No less than 54.6 per cent of the electricity mix in the national grid comes from renewable sources today – making Sweden the EU leader in renewable energy.

Energy Efficiency

Buildings, industry, transport, and mobility are all identified as the sectors with the largest potential for energy saving. This is true in industrialised as well as developing countries. These sectors are markedly different from each other but also have many challenges in common, like creating and maintaining sustainable systems of power supply, heating, cooling, and lighting, just to name a few.

Sweden has implemented strict energy efficiency standards across various sectors, including buildings, transportation, and industry. These regulations have led to innovations in energy-saving technologies and practices, further reducing emissions. For example, Swedish buildings are required to meet rigorous insulation and energy efficiency standards, which reduces the overall energy demand.

Public Transportation and Sustainable Urban Planning

The journey towards fossil-free, low-carbon public transport began way back in the 1980s. Thanks to hard work, a long-term approach and clearly defined interim targets, the goal of 100 % renewable energy for the metro, buses and local trains was achieved in 2017. The next goals for 2030 are to have fossil-free maritime traffic, cut emissions by 75% compared with 2009 levels, and to use 15% less energy per passenger kilometer than in 2011.

Sweden has invested in sustainable urban planning and public transportation. Cities like Stockholm have well-developed public transit systems that reduce the need for private car use, thereby lowering emissions. Additionally, urban areas are designed to encourage walking, cycling, and the use of public transport.

How Does Sweden Succeed in Emissions Reduction Combined with Economic Growth? Article continues below illustration.

Circular Economy Initiatives

Sweden is a leader in promoting a circular economy, where the focus is on reducing waste and promoting recycling and reuse. The country has one of the highest recycling rates in the world, which helps in reducing the overall carbon footprint.

As of 2024, a new Swedish law declares that everyone must separate their food waste – this goes for households and businesses alike. It’s also mandatory for all of Sweden’s local authorities to provide separate collection of food waste.

This has already been done for years in many parts of the country, but it hasn’t been regulated by law until now.

Food waste is a great source of energy and is used, among other things, as biogas – to replace fossil fuels.

Government and Policy Support

The Swedish government has consistently supported environmental sustainability through legislation, research funding, and public awareness campaigns. Sweden’s long-term commitment to reducing emissions is backed by clear policies and goals, such as the aim to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.

The first country in the world to pass an environmental protection act in 1967, Sweden also hosted the first UN conference on the global environment in 1972. Since then, Sweden has not looked back, managing to grow its economy substantially while reducing carbon emissions and limiting pollution. Around 60 per cent of Sweden’s national energy supply comes from renewables, and thorough legislation aims at further reducing emissions.

For more than a decade, Sweden has been in the top ten of the respected Environmental Performance Index produced by Columbia and Yale universities, with exceptionally clean air and clean water alongside its low emissions.

How Does Sweden Succeed in Emissions Reduction Combined with Economic Growth? Article continues below illustration.

Public-Private Partnerships

Sweden fosters collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia to develop innovative solutions for reducing emissions. This collaborative approach helps in scaling up successful projects and technologies, thereby accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

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Related: World’s First Fossil-Free Steel From Sweden
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Sweden is a leading donor of development assistance, but meeting the funding needs for a green and digital transition requires closer cooperation between development assistance and trade, greater mobilization of private capital and harnessing the business sector’s innovation capacity. A current example of this is Sweden’s partnership with Bangladesh, which HRH Crown Princess Victoria visited together with Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell on 18–21 March.

Societal Awareness and Engagement

Swedish society is highly environmentally conscious, with strong public support for sustainability initiatives. This cultural aspect drives both individual behavior and policy acceptance, making it easier to implement and maintain stringent environmental regulations.

The first part of the 2021-2022 EIB Climate Survey explores people’s views on climate change in a rapidly changing world.

75% of Swedish people think that climate change and its consequences are the biggest challenge for humanity in the 21st century

76% are in favor of stricter government measures that impose changes on people’s behavior (six points higher than last year)
51% think the country will fail in drastically reducing its carbon emissions by 2050, as pledged in the Paris Agreement
58% believe that they are more concerned about the climate emergency than their government is
54% feel that climate change has an impact on their everyday lives
82% say they want to replace short-distance flights by fast, low-polluting trains in collaboration with neighboring countries

Decoupling Economic Growth from Emissions

Through these combined efforts, Sweden has managed to decouple its economic growth from carbon emissions. While its economy has grown, the country has reduced emissions by over 25% since 1990, demonstrating that economic prosperity and environmental sustainability can go hand in hand.

With the highest level of CO2 tax worldwide, Sweden provides strong evidence that decoupling GDP growth from CO2 emissions is possible and that CO2 tax is an efficient way of achieving a decrease in CO2 emission with fossil origin.

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Related: Sweden Contributes to Making Europe Greener
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Technological Innovation

Sweden has been at the forefront of developing and adopting new technologies that contribute to emissions reduction. This includes advancements in energy storage, electric vehicles, and smart grid technologies. Continuous innovation ensures that Sweden can maintain its progress in reducing emissions while supporting economic growth.

Sweden has notified to the European Commission of its plans to adopt a €3 billion (SEK 36 billion) scheme to support projects removing biogenic CO₂emissions through permanent CCS. The measure aims to enable CCS as a viable and effective tool to mitigate climate change. This is expected to increase investor confidence in CCS-technology, reduce costs for its future applications and thereby facilitate the development of a CCS value chain in the EU.

Under the scheme, the aid will be awarded through a competitive bidding process, with the first auction expected in 2024. Auctions will be open to companies that (i) carry out an activity in Sweden, emitting biogenic CO₂, and (ii) implement projects with a capacity to capture and store at least 50,000 tonnes of biogenic CO₂ per year.

Lessons learned

So, what can other countries learn from the Swedish success story?

“Sweden, I think, illustrates that yes, it’s indeed possible to produce electricity without any greenhouse gas emissions at all, and that’s an example for other countries in the world,” said energy expert De Schrijver from the European Environment Agency.

Sweden’s success in combining emissions reduction with economic growth is the result of a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. By integrating environmental concerns into economic policies, investing in technology and infrastructure, and fostering a culture of sustainability, Sweden has set a powerful example of how countries can pursue both environmental and economic goals simultaneously.

How Does Sweden Succeed in Emissions Reduction Combined with Economic Growth? edited by Tor Kjolberg

Meet Norwegian Design Chairs Fluffy and Unfluffy

Tor Kjølberg

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August 20, 2024

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Meet Norwegian Design Chairs Fluffy and Unfluffy

Last June, the Norwegian “Fluffy” lounge chair became available in an “UnFluffy” version with textile. Meet Norwegian design chairs Fluffy and Unfluffy.

“We have been working on customizing Unfluffy for the market all winter,” says founder of Eikund, Morten Hippe (47).

Morten Hippe has worked for the Danish furniture manufacturer Carl Hansen & Søn, known for a number of furniture classics. When he was refurbishing his own apartment in 2016, he contacted the cabinetmaker Frode Tingbø, and they started talking about the Norwegian design furniture that was designed in the 1950s and 60s. How about starting a company that collects the best Norwegian design classics – and put them into production again?

A year after, the new Norwegian furniture company Eikund was re-launching Norwegian furniture classics that definitely impress. The scope of creativity blooming in Norway around the mid-twentieth century is unknown territory for many. Pulled into the spotlight again, there is no doubt that these objects fit perfectly into contemporary interiors of today, both in public and private sector.

The Fluffy lounge chair by Fredrik A. Kayser is characterized by its ultra-soft upholstery in Norwegian sheepskin, and its sloping armrests leaning you into a welcoming embrace. Kayser graduated from National Academy of Craft and Art Industry back in 1945 and the lounge chair was designed while being employed at Rastad & Relling Tegnekontor. It combines both art and function into one, a floating cloud of fluffiness that builds on the past for the present. This is a brand-new species that can live anywhere!

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Related: Be Seated the Norwegian Way
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The UnFluffy lounge chair is characterized by its sloping armrests leaning you into a welcoming embrace. This is the more versatile sibling of the Fluffy lounge chair.

“This product has great potential, as several people have expressed that they could imagine a slightly more “toned-down” version of Fluffy”, says Morten Hippe.

Norwegian designers from this period were clearly influenced by the modernistic trends rushing through Europe and joined the common mission to create simple and functional furniture for the masses. Like the pioneers from neighboring countries, such as Hans J. Wegner and Alvar Aalto, they never lost sight of the refined and cultivated aesthetics that characterize many of these pieces today and have made them into collector items at auction houses worldwide.

“As a trained industrial designer, I long had design history as a hobby, and immersed myself in everything to do with Norwegian as well as international products and designers,” says Hippe. “I knew there was a lot of Norwegian gold out there.”

Transforming the Fluffy Chair to the UnFluffy Char has been done relatively easily, according to Hippe. “We were two people who worked through the solutions together. One person with a background as an industrial designer and the other person with training as an upholsterer. We planned most of it before we started, based on an original chair and how the core casting looks. After two prototypes, we were able to fine-tune all the necessary details to bring it up to a “high-end” level”, adds Hippe.

While UnFluffy is based on the original Fluffy drawings and manufacturing process, there are subtle differences all around. With the thick, raggy sheepskin gone, the basic shapes and clean lines becomes the center of focus. Fitting the fabric without creases around the armrests and creating elegant seams were two problems that had to be solved. The shapes of the seating and back have also been tweaked to compensate for the brand-new look without fluff.

“We have chosen Elle and Safire as our standard textiles. This is based on their aesthetics, texture and thickness, as well as how they fit the shape of the chair. Both fabrics are from our partner Kvadrat and have the Greenguard Gold environmental certificates. Elle is a type of boucle with a nice structure, and it is quite soft. While Safire is on the edge of being boucle without being it. Safire is a bit tighter than Elle, but with nice texture and structure. The chair gets a visible softness with these textiles”, says Hippe.

Meet Norwegian Design Chairs Fluffy and Unfluffy, written by Tor Kjolberg, based mainly on information published of Eikund official website.

Norwegian Photographer’s Eternal Studies with Nature

Fine arts/music

Tor Kjølberg

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August 19, 2024

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Norwegian Photographer’s Eternal Studies with Nature

Out in the open nature with the sky as his roof, near sea, oceans and islets, fine art photographer Asla finds peace and solitude. He seeks out untamed nature, environments where the tones of the sky and the surface of the sea contain palettes and forms that he never tires of.
Read more about the Norwegian photographer’s eternal studies with nature.

The whole world is his workplace in the quest for the perfect light. And the ultimate frame. He can find something interesting in the light at different times of the day, where oceans and sky unfold in front of his eyes with visions he has never captured before. When these inexplicable atmospheric phenomena occur, he is there to capture them. Asla’s images are not just about what is seen but equally about the unseen, that which reaches the senses. Observing the light in the sky, feeling the air, and listening to the rhythmic sounds of the sea’s surface do something to him. It’s about presence. Something pure. Genuine and meditative. He opens himself to nature and emphasizes that he takes pictures with nature, not of it. When those rare glimpses of something resembling divine light reveal themselves to him, he attempts to perpetuate that exact moment.

The few subjects that pass through his critical eye after thousands of exposures possess abstract qualities from which he creates images of finely tuned aesthetics. There is a touch of Mark Rothko in Asla’s photographic universe. Vertical color fields and a picture surface that feels vibrating are things they have in common. It’s almost as if the tones contain poetry about existence. “They act as sensory meditation objects charged with emotions,” said art historian Øystein Ustvedt about Rothko’s paintings in D2 on May 10 this year. The same can be said of Asla’s fine art photographs.

A lot of time is spent waiting. Anticipating.

“To create is also to search”, he says.

“To create provocative art is not for me. It would not feel genuine. I am not a provocative person. I have to be honest in my expression and focus on what captures my interest. The work has to be genuine in order to have lasting value, or any value.”

He feels completely free in his art. Finally, he controls everything himself, without compromising with commercial clients. In this context, a quote from Asgeir Jorn’s “Face to Face” (1944) partly conveys what Asla means by freedom in art: “Art is a way of life, beautiful, ugly, impressive, disgusting, meaningless, gloomy, self-contradictory, etc. It makes no difference as long as it is life flowing powerfully forth.”

Asla’s method is to take in some part of the world, where visual noise is excluded. For many years, he has lived a hectic life as a professional photographer in the USA, based in Los Angeles, where he still lives and works. He has achieved professional success but has maintained a down-to-earth and humble demeanor.

“For me there is no contradiction in being grounded and being self-confident”, says the photographer who grew up in Drammen. The initial plan was to become a lawyer, but after a year as a student at the University of Oslo, he traveled to Paris and decided to pursue practical education in the photographic field by working his way up to a level that led to being hired as an assistant to the famous photographer Herb Ritts in Los Angeles in 1996. Later, Asla became a renowned photographer himself, with elements of artistic expressions reflected in his images. The minimalist visual language with classical simplification, as well as sculptural and abstract forms, contributed to Asla getting assignments for global brands.

Erik Asla works meticulously and laser-focused when he decides to do something he believes in. After eight years of experimenting with photographing oceans, sky and horizons, in addition to being inspired by modern American contemporary art such as Robert Irwin, James Turrell and Agnes Martin, Asla is also inspired by the paintings of Kåre Tveter – who painted almost transparent images of the arctic light. The Norwegian fine art photographer, born in 1964, had his first solo exhibition, in Palm Springs (2017) at the private gallery Janssen Artspace, with the exhibition title ‘The Stillness of Motion’. This project has later been expanded and exhibited in Oslo at Galleri Semmingsen (2018) and Drammens Museum (2021).

This year, Asla is presenting a new exhibition, ‘Elsewhere’ at Galleri Semmingsen in Frogner, which opens on August 29th and runs until September 22th. Here, he showcases environments he has been working on for the past three years. In some of the works, parts of a landscape emerge in the form of mountains, cliffs, islets, and skerries.

Capturing the mysticism in the light on the blue planet seems to be an eternal study for fine art photographer Erik Asla.

For more info: erikasla.com

Norwegian Photographer’s Eternal Studies with Nature, written by Anne Marit Muri. Muri is a former editor of, among others, Magasinet Kunst, and has written reports on art and culture for a number of years.
She is the author and initiator of the book, Kunstnerliv, portraits of 19 contemporary artists, which was published in 2018, voted the year’s most beautiful art book in 2019 by Grafill. She is also the author of the book, Det gåtefulle lyset, Svalbard, which was published in autumn 2022, by the publisher Utenfor Allfarvei in Harstad.
Muri is educated at the University of Oslo and Bergen. She is currently working on a master’s degree in media development, under the auspices of Oslo Met, in addition to developing new book projects and is a writer for several magazines. She is a regular writer on fine arts for Daily Scandinavian.

All photograhs © Erik Asla (except portrait photo of Anne Marit Muri)

Feature image (on top): Erik Asla, Malibu (private)

A 10-Day Scandinavian Visit with Daily Scandinavian and AI

Tor Kjølberg

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August 16, 2024

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A 10-Day Scandinavian Visit with Daily Scandinavian and AI

A May 2024 survey commissioned by MoneyLion and conducted online by The Harris Poll, highlights how Americans are planning their travels, where they are planning to go, and their adoption of AI tools in these processes. The survey inspired us to communicate with our Chat Bot to produce an itinerary for a 10-day Scandinavian visit with Daily Scandinavian and AI.

We asked our Chat Bot the following question:

Can you make an itinerary for a 10-days visit to Scandinavia with suggestions based on content on DailyScandinavian.com?

Here’s the result:

Here’s a 10-day itinerary for a Scandinavian adventure, focusing on Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, with highlights from insights found on Daily Scandinavian:

Day 1-2: Copenhagen, Denmark

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen. Explore Nyhavn, the picturesque harbor, and visit the Little Mermaid statue. Take a stroll down Strøget, one of the longest pedestrian streets in Europe, for shopping and dining.
Day 2: Visit Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks. Explore the historic Christiansborg Palace and take a canal tour to see the city from the water.

Day 3-4: Stockholm, Sweden

Day 3: Travel to Stockholm by train or flight. Explore the medieval Gamla Stan (Old Town), visit the Royal Palace, and the Nobel Museum. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant restaurant scene.
Day 4: Spend the day at Djurgården Island visiting the Vasa Museum and the open-air Skansen Museum. For art lovers, the Moderna Museet is a must-see.

Day 5-6: Oslo, Norway

Day 5: Take a morning flight or train to Oslo. Visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park and the Akershus Fortress. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower.
Day 6: Explore the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Viking Ship Museum (The Viking Ship Museum is located on the Bygdøy peninsula in Oslo, Norway. It will be temporarily closed from September 2021 until 2027 due to reconstruction)*. End the day with a stroll along the Aker Brygge waterfront.

Day 7-8: Bergen and the Fjords, Norway

Day 7: Travel by train to Bergen via the scenic Bergen Railway, considered one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Explore the Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and ride the Fløybanen Funicular for stunning views of the city.
Day 8: Take a day trip to the Norwegian fjords. The Nærøyfjord and Sognefjord are stunning options. You can join a guided tour or cruise to experience these natural wonders.

Day 9: Tromsø, Norway

Day 9: Fly to Tromsø, known as the gateway to the Arctic. Explore the Arctic Cathedral and take the Fjellheisen Cable Car for panoramic views. In the evening, embark on a Northern Lights tour for a chance to witness this magical phenomenon.

Day 10: Departure

Spend your final morning in Tromsø visiting local attractions or enjoying the Arctic landscapes before heading to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary offers a blend of vibrant city life, rich cultural experiences, and breathtaking natural beauty, ensuring a well-rounded Scandinavian adventure.

Denmark Introduces Regulations on Camper Van Tourists

Tor Kjølberg

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August 15, 2024

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Denmark Introduces Regulations on Camper Van Tourists

Local communities and camp van tourists often clash over problems like parking in natural areas, obstructed views, and littering. Now, Denmark introduces regulations to appease locals.

In Denmark, there’s growing frustration among locals about camper van tourists, who often park in large numbers, sometimes blocking scenic views and leaving litter behind. The country joins a growing list of European holiday destinations such as Venice and Tenerife grappling with the challenges posed by overtourism.

Peter Krusborg Pedersen, CEO of Visit Northwest Coast (Visit Nordvestkysten), likens the situation to the ‘Wild West’ due to the lack of regulations. He notes that the uncertainties can make it hard for tourists to know where they can park.

In the last five years, the number of camper vans in Denmark increased by 27 percent. This includes a big rise in foreign camper vans coming into the country. Regulations now being introduced include banning parking in certain areas, providing more information for camper van tourists, and creating designated parking spots.

Tourist organizations, local governments, and campgrounds are seeking a balanced approach that makes tourists feel welcome, allows the country to benefit economically from tourism, and minimizes negative impacts on local communities.

Copenhagen introduced a reward program this summer, CopenPay, for those who choose to ride a bike, take public transport or undergo work like gardening or rubbish collection at the harbor or in the city’s parks.

“Every choice we make impacts the environment, so why not make decisions that benefit everyone and be rewarded for them?” suggest the organizers.

Denmark Introduces Regulations on Camper Van Tourists, written by Tor Kjolberg

Feature image (on top) © Nick Dunlap / Unsplash

Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours

Tor Kjølberg

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August 14, 2024

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In my article How to Use Long Layovers as a Tool, I mentioned hop-on-hop-off bus tours. These are not only a great option for layovers. I often take advantage of them in destinations in which I spend several days.

Hop on hop off bus tours have more than 400 tours available. The tours are especially designed for travelers of all ages. The tours are also included with multi language audio guides and live professional guides.

Hop-On-hop-Off bus tours take you to the most popular landmarks in a city. You can choose to stay at each attraction for a quick photo before you hop back on the bus or spend some time exploring and take the next bus.

The headphones provided give you detailed pre-recorded information in eight different languages about each stop and even landmarks you may pass along the way.

For flights lasting more than six hours, layovers can be good if you need a break from sitting and want to walk around. Flights with stopovers are also generally cheaper. If your stopover is in a city where you have a friend, it’s always fun if he/she can meet you for a meal at the airport or very close by.

If you choose to make a long layover, It is a good idea to take this bus tour on the first or second day in a destination if possible because it gives you the lay of the land and puts a mental map in your head of the city, including landmarks or neighborhoods you may want to revisit to spend more time in.

I have identified streets with restaurants and bars that look good to eat, read a book or simply take in the soul of a city.

Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tours, written by Tor Kjolberg

New Record High for EVs in Norway

Tor Kjølberg

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August 13, 2024

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July saw plugin EVs take 94.3% market share in Norway, up from 89.9% year on year. The Volkswagen ID.4 was the month’s best seller. July showed new record high for EVs in Norway.

The impressive figures are dominated by battery electric vehicles (BEVs) while overall automotive volumes have seen a decrease year over year and March showed the lowest sales figure in fifteen years.

“The electric market share didn’t rise significantly last year. However, the Norwegian parliament has strengthened EV incentives for 2024”, says Christina Bu, Secretary General of The Norwegian EV Association.

The trend so far in 2024 has been a decline in PHEV sales, due to the tighter emissions taxes starting from January, and growth in BEV share as a result. Non-plugins are steadily declining also but are proving tenacious and hard to completely displace.

The most popular vehicle in Norway for eighth consecutive months has been the Tesla Model Y. This comes amid an observable shift in policy that has begun steering consumers from plug-in hybrids. The model was down in the 11th spot, but this is normal for July in Norway (it was 9th in July 2023), after the end-of-quarter push.

in April, Volvo EX30 was the most sold electric vehicle in Norway.

“I believe that electric cars will further dominate the Norwegian new car market in 2024. Internal combustion engines will soon be history”, claims Bu.

The Volkswagen ID.4 (feature image on top) took the pole position in the sales charts in July, with 571 registrations, down in volume by 40% from July last year. In second place was its Volkswagen Group MEB cousin, the Skoda Enyaq, with 395 units, down by 44%.

The EV market in Norway is not just about the frontrunners; it reflects a diverse set of competitors making significant strides. Notable advancements were made by Xpeng G9, climbing to 12th place from 19th, and the Honda e:Ny1, which soared to 13th from 74th in the previous month. Other climbers included the BYD Tang and the Mercedes EQB, showcasing the dynamic nature of the market.

“The Norwegian EV Association is confident that Norway can achieve the objective of 100 percent zero-emission car sales in 2025. Electric vehicles (EVs) are not only the top choice in urban areas but also dominate sales in rural regions”, says Bu.

In terms of all-new debutants, there were several in Norway in July. The most significant is the new Audi Q6 e-tron mid-large premium SUV, which saw 62 initial units. This takes Volkswagen Group’s past BEV learnings and applies them to a next-generation premium BEV platform shared between Audi and Porsche.

Despite the introduction of new models, the overall market volume’s decline reflects broader economic challenges impacting consumer and business confidence.

“The Norwegian policy has been tremendously successful, reducing emissions from new passenger cars by over 90 percent. This success has not only influenced and paved the way for other countries but has also extended to various other forms of zero-emission transportation beyond just passenger cars”, Bu adds.

Scandinavia leads globally in selling electric cars, with Sweden following Norway closely. By 2030, Sweden plans to stop selling cars with regular engines, aiming to boost electric vehicle usage. The country has big plans for sustainable energy and industries like green steel and building substantial battery factories.

Top 10 most sold cars in Norway 2023

Tesla Model Y: 23 088
Volkswagen ID.4: 6 614*
Skoda Enyaq: 5 737
Toyota bZ4X: 5 395
Volvo XC40: 5 025
Ford Mustang Mach-E: 3 792
Toyota Yaris: 3 574**
Toyota RAV4: 3 457
Volkswagen ID.3: 3 141
Hyundai Kona electric: 2 991

* inkl. ID.4 GTX

** inkl. Toyota Yaris Cross

New Record High for EVs in Norway, compiled by Tor Kjolberg

Scandinavian Breads & Grains

Tor Kjølberg

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August 12, 2024

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Scandinavians love to bake. They have a special and great tradition of home-baking, for every good reason you can think of. Read on and learn more about Scandinavian breads and grains.

In former times it was the only way to have bread. People lived in remote places, with farms scattered over vast areas. Shop-bought bread from the city bakeries was out of reach for all but the rich. In the cities, the risk of fire was much too great to have domestic ovens.

Scandinavians were not introduced to ovens until around 1800, before which every home had open fires, but not ones you could bake bread in. Loaves were brought to the bakers to finish, as were big roasts and the Christmas goose.

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Related: Christmas and Gingerbread Houses in Stockholm
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For the very poor, bread was not an option; they ate porridge and different forms of the oldest types of bread – flat, unleavened breads, made from rye and barley, they could be baked on a hot stone or upturned pan.

In the country, the bread was baked at home in huge, wood-fired ovens. The traditions vary, but the breads that have made Scandinavia famous stem from the wood-fired ovens. The Finnish mass oven was built in almost every home in northern Scandinavia. The ovens are still there – constructed from brick or local stone, around a chimney, in the middle of the house. Intricate systems of channels inside the ovens distribute heat to the entire house and heat the water too.

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Related: Breakfast in Copenhagen
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On the back are cozy, warm alcoves for the old people, and sometimes adjacent ovens in the main rooms. In the kitchen the fire heats a stove and two ovens; a low oven for drying and keeping things warm and a baking oven.

Not everything was heated at once; you could arrange the firewood and embers as you pleased.

In upcoming articles, I will share different kinds of breads and bread traditions with you.

Scandinavian Breads & Grains, written by Tor Kjolberg

Oslo – The Compact Scandinavian Powerhouse

Tor Kjølberg

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August 9, 2024

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Oslo – The Compact Scandinavian Powerhouse

Norway’s capital keeps becoming more livable. The new center-right city council is expected to follow through on the green promises made by its center left predecessor, with a big bump in climate funding in its latest budget. Oslo has become the compact Scandinavian powerhouse.

As Europe’s 4th fastest growing capital city in the past decade, Oslo has used its resource and governance advantages to go on a journey towards a more mixed economy, a venue for culture and creativity, a green capital, and a hub for innovative startups. Along the way Oslo has started to gain a special role in the world as a city that leads, pioneers, and excites.

One of the world’s smartest cities

Oslo aims to be the first capital city in the world with an all-electric public transport system, and cars are making way for street furniture, outdoor cafes and cyclists. In the past 10 years, some 3,000 parking spaces have been replaced by 153km bike lanes. Oslo is rated as one of the world’s smartest cities — based on innovative policies in electric mobility, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, public transport modernization and road safety improvement.

Reducing pollution from cruise ships

More than three million cruise tourists visit Norway every year and make Norway Europe’s
fourth biggest cruise destination. There is now a plan to reduce pollution from cruise ships in Oslo’s inner-city harbor, which will be offered land-based electricity, allowing them to shut down engines while docked. Oslo has set a target to cut greenhouse gas emissions from its port by 85 percent by 2030, and in the longer term to make the port zero-emission.

Today, cruise traffic flows through four separate terminals: Filipstad, Søndre Akershuskai, Vippetangkaia and Revierkaia.

From 1 June 2023, Revierkaia became Oslo’s main cruise quay. The Port of Oslo is in the process of establishing shore power on the quay.

Filipstad is used for cruises until future urban development. The Port of Oslo is planning on shore power for cruise ships in 2025.

A new era of fine dining and drinking in Oslo

In recent years, there has been an excitement around restaurants and bars in the Norwegian capital. A new era fine dining and drinking in Oslo has come for you to enjoy. Independent bars and restaurants keep popping up and the choice of sensibly priced, high-quality meals is growing. But if you want to splash out, you can choose from 11 Michelin starred restaurants.

If you are In Oslo looking for some high-class food – paired with some amazing wine, here is the guide to the best Michelin starred restaurants with great wine lists in the Norwegian capital.

The Oslo Housing Market

Housing in Oslo, however, remains a challenge. Sandwiched between the fjord and forests, the city has little room to expand, though many developers have come up with innovative solutions, making use of the smallest footprints between existing buildings. The capital of Norway has an annual population growth of circa 2% and viewed in a Norwegian perspective, it is growing faster than any other city. The growth since the 1950s has made suburban Oslo a Klondike for architects.

Eiendom Norge expects an increase in housing prices in Norway next year. “Certain cities will see stronger development than the national one, and we believe that Oslo and Stavanger in particular will stand out. Here we expect house prices to rise by 6 and 7 per cent respectively”, says CEO of Eiendom Norge, Henning Lauridsen.

A Thriving start-up scene

Oslo’s startup community has skyrocketed in recent years. Many Oslo-born companies are scaling internationally, many thanks to support by the innovation ecosystem comprised of industry networks and clusters, incubators, accelerators, and R&D institutions.

Oslo has a thriving start-up scene, as well as long-established multinationals. While the country’s diverse economy and liberal immigration policies once made it easy for expats to move to Norway, immigration requirements have become tighter over time. Now it’s generally expats with specialist skills that are in demand. Free movement in EU countries is, however, a fundamental right guaranteed by European Treaties. Article 2 of the Schengen Agreement states that “internal borders may be crossed at any point without any checks on persons carried out.” Norway is an associated EU member, so this rule complies.

Communicating the capital’s undeniable appeal

VisitOSLO’s marketing department is responsible for marketing Oslo as a travel destination. The department’s overarching goal is to increase Oslo’s digital footprint and strengthen the city and the region as an attractive destination. The department runs the website visitoslo.com with inspiring and informative content such as thematic articles and suggestion lists for users that are planning a visit to the capital of Norway. Visitoslo.com has an event calendar that contains the city’s cultural events. The website is available in six languages.

A 19-minute train ride to Oslo Airport is a delight to travel through, with more than 120 direct flights to the rest of the world. However, the city still falls behind its Scandinavian competitors in terms of attracting talent. What Oslo needs to do now is figure out better ways in communicating its undeniable appeal.

We believe that Visit Oslo’s latest tourism campaign comes a long way in its hilarious take on life in the Capital of Norway, claiming “Never visit Oslo, Norway. Is it even a city?”

Oslo – The Compact Scandinavian Powerhouse, compiled by Tor Kjolberg

Best Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen

Tor Kjølberg

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August 8, 2024

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Copenhagen is a lively, incredible city that warmly welcomes expats from around the world, including many families from the United States. These families often prioritize finding excellent educational institutions for their children, seeking schools that offer a high-quality education in a supportive environment. Read on and learn more about best schools for expat children in Copenhagen.

Throughout this article, we will focus on the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen, which will help American families navigate their options. Whether you’re looking for an international curriculum or a school with a strong sense of community, this guide provides valuable insights into the educational landscape in Copenhagen, making your transition smoother and your child’s learning experience more enriching.

Overview of the Education System in Copenhagen

The Danish education system is highly regarded for its innovative teaching methods and commitment to student well-being. It includes both public and private schools, with public schools being tuition-free. However, one challenge for American expat families is that Danish is the primary language of instruction in public schools. This language barrier can make it difficult for children who are not fluent in Danish. International schools offer a solution by providing instruction in English and following internationally recognized curricula. These schools are designed to accommodate the needs of expat children, offering a familiar educational environment while helping them integrate into their new surroundings.

Top Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen

Copenhagen International School (CIS)

Copenhagen International School is one of the most prestigious schools for expat children in Copenhagen and is highly regarded by the expat community. Established in 1963, CIS offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program from kindergarten through high school. It has state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, and sports complexes, providing a comprehensive educational experience. Extracurricular activities are diverse, ranging from sports to arts and technology clubs, catering to various interests. The admission process is competitive and includes assessments to evaluate the child’s readiness for the IB program. While the fees are relatively high, they reflect the exceptional quality of education and resources provided.

Rygaards International School

Rygaards International School is a well-established institution that combines Danish and international education, making it an excellent choice for expat families. Founded in 1909, the school offers the British curriculum alongside the Danish system, providing flexibility for families with a longer or uncertain stay in Denmark. Rygaards strongly emphasizes holistic development, offering various extracurricular activities such as music, drama, and sports. The admission process includes an interview and assessment to evaluate the child’s academic and social readiness.

Østerbro International School

Located in the heart of Copenhagen, Østerbro International School offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, making it an ideal choice for parents seeking a structured, globally recognized education system. It provides a nurturing environment with small class sizes and a low student-teacher ratio, allowing personalized attention for each student. Extracurricular activities are plentiful, including a wide range of clubs and sports teams, encouraging students to explore their interests beyond academics. The admission process is straightforward, involving an application and an interview to assess the child’s suitability.

European School Copenhagen

The European School Copenhagen is part of a network of European schools offering multilingual and multicultural education. It is very appealing to many American expat families. The school follows the European Baccalaureate program. That makes it ideal for families with a European background or those planning future moves within Europe. It promotes cultural diversity and multilingualism, with instruction in Danish, English, and several other languages. Extracurricular activities are extensive, covering arts, sports, and academic clubs, providing a well-rounded educational experience. The admission process includes language assessments and interviews to determine the child’s readiness. Fees are moderate, reflecting the high quality of education offered.

Tips for Enrolling and Settling In

Relocating from the US to Copenhagen involves numerous steps, and enrolling your children in school is a top priority for expat families. Finding the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen and organizing a timely enrollment can be daunting amidst the complexities of an international move. That is where the expertise of an overseas moving team proves invaluable. Professional international movers handle all logistics, from packing and shipping to customs clearance, allowing you to focus on settling your family. With reliable movers managing the move, you can dedicate more time to visiting schools, meeting with administrators, and preparing your children for their new educational environment. A smooth logistical transition ensures you can prioritize helping your child adapt to their new school and surroundings, making the overall relocation experience much more manageable.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

When selecting a school for expat children in Copenhagen, American families should consider several important factors. The curriculum and teaching philosophy are key, as international schools offer various programs such as IB, British, or American curricula. Location and commute are also significant; proximity to your residence can greatly affect your daily routine. Class size and student-teacher ratio are important for personalized attention and academic success. Additionally, it’s worth considering the school’s facilities and resources, such as libraries, sports facilities, and extracurricular programs. The level of community and parent involvement can enhance your child’s overall educational experience, providing a supportive environment for both students and parents.

Additional Resources and Support for Expat Families

Copenhagen offers a variety of resources to support expat families. Expat communities and networking groups provide platforms for sharing experiences, advice, and support. Educational consultants can guide the school selection, helping families make informed decisions. Relocation services are available to assist with everything from housing to schooling, making the transition easier. Danish language courses and integration programs are also available to help families adjust to their new environment. These resources include:

Expat communities and networking groups
Educational consultants
Relocation services
Danish language courses and integration programs

These resources help expat families thrive in Copenhagen, making the city a welcoming and enriching place to live and learn.

Best Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen – Conclusion

This blog post has highlighted the best schools for expat children in Copenhagen, detailing their unique features and benefits. You can find a school that best fits your child’s needs by considering factors like curriculum, location, and community involvement. Visiting schools and speaking with other expat parents can provide deeper insights and help you make an informed decision. With the right choice, your child can thrive academically and socially in this beautiful city, making moving to Denmark a rewarding experience.

Best Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Emily Johnsen. Emily is an experienced travel writer and former expat who has lived in Copenhagen. With a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by American families moving abroad, Emily specializes in providing practical advice on relocation and integration.

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Overview of the Education System in Copenhagen

Top Schools for Expat Children in Copenhagen

Copenhagen International School (CIS)

Rygaards International School

Østerbro International School

European School Copenhagen

Tips for Enrolling and Settling In

Factors to Consider When Choosing a School

Additional Resources and Support for Expat Families