Reducing the use of single-use plastics and being more environmentally conscious is and should be on the agenda of everyone. The Norwegian Mission and Consulate General in New York is inspired by the steps to become plastic free and reducing waste by UNHQ in New York, Genève, Nairobi and several other UN entities.
‘We wish to encourage other diplomatic missions worldwide to increase their efforts for the environment. We must all do our part to reach the Global Sustainable Development Goals for our common future', says Harriet E. Berg, Norway’s Consul General to New York.
The new offices of the Permanent Mission and the Consulate General in Manhattan, 885 Second Avenue, 35th floor, received the certification from the Eco-Lighthouse Foundation this week. The certification is widely used in Norway and is recognised by the European Union.
‘Protecting the environment, limiting climate impact and reducing plastic waste is a top priority for Norway in the UN. That our offices follow the same standard we see as a matter of course, and one that substantiate our arguments’, says Ambassador Mona Juul.
Additionally, being environmentally conscious is a vital element in Norway’s campaign for a seat in the Security Council. All the products used for the campaign, such as water bottles, nets, notebooks, pens and booklets are environmentally friendly and aims to be recycled. All the material follows ethical production guidelines and is 100 % traceable back to its origins.
Moving into new offices provided the opportunity to change our habits for the better. The Mission and Consulate General have completed a number of measures to ensure the highest environmental standard.
‘The move gave us the opportunity to take a look at our own routines and the push to make the small adjustments needed by everyone’, says Consul General Harriet E. Berg
Measures taken by the Norwegian Mission and Consulate General:
- Implemented comprehensive recycling.
- Discontinued use of single-use plastics.
- Reduced energy consumption in new and more environmentally friendly offices.
- Focus on environmental purchases and by asking our suppliers for documentation on their environmental impact.
- Encouraging other Embassies, Consulates and Missions, Norwegian or foreign, to become an Eco-Lighthouse.
- Deepening all employees’ knowledge about the environment and sustainable consumption.
Norway in New York has committed to continue the efforts for the environment through working continuously to find better solutions and ways to reduce our carbon footprint. In 2019 we aim to improve our proficiency at recycling, waste management and environmentally friendly purchases.
Please contact us to know more about the Eco-Lighthouse certification. Our very own Eco-Lighthouse manager will be able to provide information about the process and how your office can become more sustainable.