The Oslofjord is facing a severe ecological crisis driven by eutrophication, overfishing, and pollution from land-based activities.
Despite the implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Norway, challenges persist due to fragmented governance across the land-sea interface, limited upstream-downstream coordination, and a narrow focus on individual waterbodies rather than the fjord as a whole. The lack of integration between WFD and broader marine management plans further weakens coherence, especially in terms of cumulative impacts, spatial planning, and ecosystem-based approaches.
In response, Norway is pursuing two key pathways: improving coordination within the existing WFD governance system and introducing a new cross-sectoral Action Plan for the Oslofjord. This Plan, although non-binding, has led to enhanced implementation, financial support, and broader stakeholder engagement. Additional proposals—such as recipient-based nutrient budgets—could further improve coherence and ecological outcomes.
To explore these issues and solutions in more depth, please see the full case study summary below.
