Danish solutions to global environmental challenges
Preface
Denmark is a front-runner in eco-efficient technology. We have contributed to advancing the agenda - through relentless political pressure; through the power of example; and not least through adopting new types of environmental regulations that incorporate environmental technology as an integral aspect of development, for example, as in the new agricultural regulations. There are measures that purposefully push forward new technologies from research and development environments, and this is vital if we are to decouple environmental impact from economic growth. We have been successful in several areas in Denmark, and amongst other things this has provided us with an excellent window for Danish products and experience.
The government is now making public Denmark’s first collective plan for technological development and innovation for the environment and resources. The plan will help ensure that Denmark continues to be a leader in this area, by establishing clear goals, targeted investments and new regulations that combined make it attractive for Danish enterprises to take the lead. For the benefit of the environment; and for the benefit of the Danish business community.
Unquestionably, the active participation of businesses is a decisive factor for innovation and renewal of the effort in Denmark, including participation in partnerships, activities and the evaluation of market opportunities. Partnerships where enterprises, researchers and the authorities set common goals and create funding to accelerate technological innovation are necessary to maintain our lead in numerous areas. Development must be supported and perhaps ‘kick-started’ by the public authorities, but on the other hand value is created in enterprises, among researchers and by people at home.
There is no doubt that climate change is an enormous challenge. The problem can only be solved through an ambitious, global mixture of remedies. Global political agreements and massive investments are necessary. We need new approaches and innovative thinking. New technologies that are less resource-demanding must be developed and adopted. Otherwise, the challenge becomes unmanageable.
Climate change is typical of the vast environmental challenges of our time, including, for example, reducing air pollution, ensuring clean drinking water, reducing the amount of chemicals used daily, halting the loss of biodiversity and developing cleaner livestock production. Common for each of these challenges is that efficient solutions are those that implement eco-efficient technology and that accelerate the development and demand for new technologies.
Connie Hedegaard, Minister for the Environment
Version 1.0 October 2007, © Danish Environmental Protection Agency