On one of the indirect repercussions of the oil industry on Norwegian fjords

Abstract

The extension of oil and exploration and drilling activities in the Norwegian Sea and Barents Sea has helped to increase the need for an efficient and reliable road network which can transport supplies to and from and between the land based oil and gas terminals. The use of road/bridge embankments which extend into the fjord has caused a conflict between the interests of the environmentalists, aquaculturalists and local shipping industries and those of the Department of Roads and Transportation. Law now requires an environmental assessment of any planned road/bridge which could adversely effect the water quality in the fjord. Potential effects include increased icing and reduced bottom water renewal. The use of aerators and the channeling of local fresh water sources to the bottom of the fjord offer potential solutions to the problem.