This is mainly because the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions is so closely related to general economic development. As a result, the way policy instruments are applied frequently involves a compromise between environmental and other interests. The Norwegian greenhouse gas emissions increased with 8,5 per cent from 1990 to 2004. In the Kyoto Protocol, Norway has committed to stabilizing emissions at 1 per cent above the 1990 emission level.

The national instruments used to control greenhouse emissions reflect the natural complexity of the issue which affects all walks of life. In addition to traditional pollution permits under the Pollution Control Act, the Norwegian authorities now use a range of different regulations, economic measures and incentives.

Most instruments still focus on technical measures, both national and international, since this is the most realistic way to achieve results in the short and medium term. A more lasting solution to the climate change issue, however, would probably demand more fundamental instruments with a far-reaching impact on how large parts of society are organized.