Living Planet Norway's big green lie
Sep 26, 2025
Norway shines as a climate leader, yet its oil and gas exports tell a different story. A geologist grapples with his role and joins climate protests, igniting a crisis of conscience. Critics dissect the nation's green image amid substantial fossil fuel ties and recent approvals for new oil projects. Discussions touch on the moral dilemmas of carbon capture, legal battles against field approvals, and the urgent call for a shift to green energy investments. Can Norway reconcile its ambitions with its fossil fuel dependence?
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Geologist Turned Climate Protester
- Daniel Solien describes how reading about cognitive bias at Equinor made him question the oil industry and speak out in protests.
- He joined Extinction Rebellion, met Greta Thunberg, became a spokesperson, and later left Equinor over the conflict.
Green Image Masks Exported Emissions
- Norway balances a green image at home with large-scale oil and gas exports that drive most of its emissions.
- Hydropower, EVs and heat pumps cut domestic footprints while exported fossil fuels create far larger global emissions.
Offsets As Political Cover
- Norway used offsets, emissions trading and international funding to meet climate targets without cutting domestic oil production.
- This allowed political leaders to present climate leadership while continuing fossil fuel extraction.