Iceland wants to responsibly address the problem of, if no action is taken, on climate issues, but in this context it is worth mentioning that Iceland became a party to the Paris Agreement before the end of 2015.
It is important to take advantage of the opportunities that exist to reduce the negative impact on the environment from our activities. In the value chains of seafood, much remains to be done regarding improved environmental impact from fishing and processing. Part of the improved effect of seafood processing is the electrification of fishmeal production in Iceland, but important steps have recently been taken in this area.
As reported in the run-up to the spring meeting of the Icelandic Fishmeal Producers' Association (FÍF), the company and Landsvirkjun have joined forces to promote the increased use of renewable energy in the fishmeal industry, as stated in a letter of intent from Jón Már Jónsson, Chairman of FÍF and Hörður Arnarson, CEO of Landsvirkjun. As is often the case in Icelandic society, the fish story often flies.
At an open meeting of the Marine Center of Excellence on sustainable utilization and protection of the ocean on climate issues - challenges and opportunities in the fisheries sector, on Thursday 6 April, the Minister for the Environment, Björt Ólafsdóttir, addressed the above-mentioned plans in opening remarks.
"A good example of success in climate change at the initiative of the business community is the electrification of fishmeal factories. There, the industry itself took the initiative to switch from oil to electricity. Everyone will agree on its excellence, in addition to the climate benefits, air pollution will be reduced and working conditions will improve with electrification. However, there have been glimmers of hope due to rising electricity prices. I therefore welcome the recent declaration of intent by Landsvirkjun and the Association of Icelandic Fishmeal Producers to increase the share of renewable energy in fishmeal production. ”
At the meeting, general satisfaction with the above-mentioned plans was revealed. Hörður Arnarson stated that in order for Landsvirkjun and FÍF to agree on the above-mentioned declaration of intent, a mutual understanding of each party's operations and operating environment was required. Hörður mentioned that fishmeal factories were a technically demanding business partner due to the nature of the operation and uncertainty.
Hörður also said that Matís' involvement had contributed to the conclusion that was reached in the end.
This is just one example of how, through concerted action, we can succeed in these matters as well as others and influence developments.
In this context, it can be pointed out that Landsvirkjun's annual meeting will take place today, Wednesday 26 April at 14:00 at Hilton Reykjavík Nordica.