Environmental, Energy, and Climate Issues

The fundamental principle in the policy of the Framsókn Party is respect for nature and sustainability. We Icelanders base our existence on the sensible and sustainable utilisation of the nation's natural resources. It is important that the profit from the utilisation of these resources flows to the community. Clean air, land, and sea, along with the diversity of Icelandic nature, are resources that must be respected. The Framsókn policy on climate, environment, and resource matters reflects the main principles of the party's fundamental policy and the United Nations' sustainable development goals.

Framsókn emphasises the increase in energy production to ensure energy transitions and foster increased value creation. Energy security is important for households in the country, production businesses, and economic growth. The goal is for Iceland to be self-sufficient in energy production and able to meet the diverse needs of society across the entire country. The aim for a carbon-neutral Iceland by 2040 is ambitious, and it is clear that more activation will be needed to achieve it. Other factors must be considered, such as the development of the transmission system, reducing waste, cooperation with labour market partners to reduce emissions, as well as looking at innovation.

The transmission system is a prerequisite for energy transitions and economic progress. The utilisation of domestic, cost-effective, green energy sources depends on having the necessary transmission infrastructure in place. The transmission system needs to be robust, and a ring connection around the country is essential for us to harness the energy generated in the country. A strong and efficient transmission system is necessary to ensure energy security. The cost of electricity distribution is mostly equalised by the state, but full equalisation must be ensured, guaranteeing that everyone, whether in urban or rural areas, has the same access. Framsókn emphasises ensuring equal access for all citizens by equalising the distribution costs and conducting a comprehensive review of the electricity distribution system with the aim of equalising distribution costs nationwide.

Electricity shortages and cuts are unacceptable. Framsókn emphasises continuing the review of the framework plan, while implementing those options already in the utilisation category. Until sufficient energy has been secured through increased energy acquisition, a clear stance on prioritisation in favour of households, small businesses, and heating companies must be taken. Contracts for interruptible energy (unsecured energy) are important for fully utilising our system. Companies enter into such contracts at a lower price, aware that curtailments may occur. However, due to low water levels and increased demand, the curtailments have become more frequent and last longer. It is urgent to review the system as a whole and make it more transparent.

Framsókn emphasises innovation and development in working towards improvements in environmental and climate issues. Demand for energy from renewable green sources is rapidly increasing worldwide. Framsókn wants to produce electricity fuel for energy transition domestically and simultaneously explore the opportunities that may lie in exporting knowledge and energy in the form of electricity fuel.

Framsókn wants to promote a more targeted implementation of the circular economy in Icelandic society. It is important to seek solutions that suit Icelandic conditions, which requires strong leadership and good cooperation between the state, industry, and municipalities.

Due to its size and national economic importance, Landsvirkjun plays a key role in energy transitions. Framsókn emphasises that the sale of nationally significant energy companies, such as Landsvirkjun, Landsnet, and RARIK, is not an option. The state needs to set its ownership policy to achieve the goals of rapid energy transitions. Framsókn is completely opposed to the direct export of electricity.

The Climate Crisis

The climate crisis is one of the greatest threats to humanity, and addressing it is therefore one of the biggest political tasks both at home and in international cooperation. Framsókn demands that the climate goals of the Paris Agreement be adhered to, i.e., that global warming does not exceed 1.5°C. Iceland can be a role model for other countries with a policy on carbon neutrality and active participation on the international stage. The goal of carbon neutrality is feasible with a comprehensive action plan by the government, public participation, steadfastness in policy, and cooperation from all parties. Emphasis must be placed on energy transitions in transportation, significantly increased carbon sequestration through afforestation, land reclamation, and geological binding, targeted actions to increase material and waste recycling, as well as incentives to reduce all kinds of waste. Iceland should lead in green solutions and innovation, which are key elements to addressing the climate crisis.

Energy and the Climate

Iceland is rich in renewable energy sources, which must be utilised sensibly. Icelandic society should benefit from the utilisation of domestic energy sources, including increased capacity building, job creation, and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. It is essential to closely follow the priorities of the climate change action plan and promote energy transition in land, air, and sea transportation, alongside the development of essential infrastructure that accompanies it.

Framsókn believes it is vital to work under a systematic policy on energy transitions in transport and support diverse production of domestic and green energy sources for transport: electricity, electric fuel, and methane. Support should be well extended to research and innovation on environmentally friendly energy sources.

It is important to perform cost-benefit analysis to map out what types of incentives or obligations are most likely to succeed in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The support for further innovation that reduces greenhouse gas emissions in industry and other energy-intensive activities, as well as within the green economy, is necessary. Likewise, it is important to support all aspects of industry to seek more environmentally friendly solutions in their operations, design, and product development. There are also opportunities in carbon capture, where innovation and environmental priorities come together.

Green, Renewable Energy

A significant advantage is gained by simplifying the regulatory framework and licensing process for power plant projects. Iceland has great human resources and knowledge that can be utilised internationally, whether in hydropower, geothermal energy, or carbon capture, assisting nations in their fight against the climate crisis.

Framsókn considers it an environmental issue to work towards full utilisation of current energy sources, thereby reducing the need for new power plants and enhancing energy security in the country. Therefore, it is important to review the regulations on the maximum energy production capacity of small plants. These laws need to provide leeway to support small plant operators to invest in the full utilisation of small plants, particularly in light of technological advances in electricity production.

Harnessing wind will play an important role in the energy transition. The conditions here are favourable due to favourable wind conditions on land and sea. Not least, wind energy is considered favourable alongside hydropower. Now that wind energy is becoming increasingly economical, Iceland should be able to maintain its leading role in the utilisation of renewable energy. It is important that there is a good legal framework for wind energy that facilitates using the wind for the benefit of the community, while also considering the environment. Wind should be seen as an addition to the nation’s shared energy resources, and resource rent should benefit the state and municipalities.

Education and Innovation

Education on climate and environmental issues needs to be ensured, among other ways, through the educational system. School work also needs to support and strengthen innovation in this area across educational levels.
Innovation and new solutions are crucial in overcoming the risks posed by climate change. Education needs to be strengthened, and entrepreneurs should be encouraged to pursue solutions that minimise negative environmental impacts, increase the circular economy, and promote sustainable development.

The Circular Economy

One of the most pressing issues of our time is combating waste and increasing the recycling and reuse of the Earth's limited resources. Framsókn emphasises the importance of circular thinking with improved multiple utilisation of resources and infrastructure. Opportunities that enhance competitiveness and efficiency with positive actions for the community and the environment need to be explored. Circular thinking emphasizes the full utilisation of resource streams within the area. Iceland should be a leader in responsible handling, recycling, and reuse of waste. Support must be provided for the development of the circular economy, where waste and inputs are recycled and reused in a way that creates value for the community. It is vital that the implementation of new laws on uniform waste sorting in the circular economy proceeds quickly with good cooperation from municipalities, companies, and the public. Significant value can lie in new products developed in the circular economy.

The importance of reducing food and textile waste and outlining its effects on climate matters must be highlighted. Framsókn proposes that municipalities support businesses and institutions in their vicinity to combat food waste. It is necessary to ensure economic incentives for companies that donate foodstuffs and essentials, thereby deliberately reducing food waste. Channels for receiving used clothes and textiles must be strengthened. Framsókn encourages all municipalities to establish a policy to reduce food waste, such as through food-sharing fridges.

Domestic food production has never been more urgent than now as it increases food security and reduces the country's overall carbon footprint. The importance of being self-sufficient is increasingly evident. Significant benefits are reaped from using CO2 emissions and waste heat for the cultivation of vegetables and fruits.

Support must be provided for innovation in food production and experiments with new foods, such as those derived from algae and zooplankton.

Framsókn emphasises that producers and retailers are encouraged to consider packaging usage and waste. It must be firmly evaluated whether there is a need for regulation or general guidelines.

Waste Recycling

Framsókn considers it fundamental to invest in a high-temperature waste-to-energy plant for mixed waste. The current situation, with the transport of mixed waste for incineration abroad, involves a significant carbon footprint, making it clear that this is an important environmental issue. A waste-to-energy plant can harness thermal energy and reduce the need for oil or power generation. Recent regulatory changes with the ban on the landfill of organic waste materials need to be considered.

Framsókn believes that monitoring of the Processing Fund needs to be increased to ensure that recyclable waste truly goes back into the circular economy. It is necessary to specify what the responsibilities of producers and importers are, taking into account the recycling options available here. These goals need to be pursued, and results measured in a clear manner.
Framsókn wishes to explore more environmentally friendly options for disposing of waste that cannot be recycled. Both low and high-temperature waste incineration options should be considered.

Natural Resources and Resource Utilisation

The Framsókn Party has long reiterated the importance of ensuring that the nation receives a fair return from the utilisation of the country's natural resources. It is necessary for the country's natural resources to be defined and for natural resource accounting to be maintained in accordance with United Nations standards to monitor the country's resources and ensure they are not depleted.
Framsókn wants a natural resources clause in the constitution of the Republic of Iceland. Such a resource clause needs to ensure fair revenue and returns for municipalities and citizens from common resources. It is necessary to legislate what is considered a resource in this country as best as possible and which Icelandic resources should be in national ownership.

The Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity

Icelandic nature is a resource, it is unique and has global significance. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the biological and geological diversity as well as the diversity of Icelandic landscapes. What can be considered unique, historical, or important in other ways must be preserved for future generations.
The purity of the sea is a value that must be respected and protected for the future. Research and knowledge-building on ocean acidification, which poses a threat to marine life, must be enhanced.
The soil itself is also a valuable resource for food production and carbon sequestration. It is reasonable for society to set rules regarding the ownership of farms. Emphasis should be placed on the conservation of landscapes, ecosystems, land types, and biodiversity. Urban and regional planning should be implemented for all public land, including the highlands and national lands. Therefore, land classification should be defined in the national planning strategy.

A land use strategy for the entire country and coastal areas should be prepared that takes carrying capacity into account. A land use plan could support municipal planning as an example.

Ensuring a network of protected wilderness areas is vital. Continued development of protected areas in close cooperation with municipalities and guided by land use plans is required. Ranger services should be increased in consultation with the local population, and its responsibility on vulnerable areas should be clarified.