MP’s environmental comment causes big stir

“Faroese people should do what suits them best, without worrying about the environment. We should of course consider green energy solutions when this is cheaper than using oil, but when oil is cheaper, we should stick with oil.”

This is the view of MP Jacob Vestergaard, expressed in an interview last weekend with news portal in.fo.

The comment has since caused an internal stir in the People’s Party, with many prominent members taking to social media to express their disagreement.

Former environment minister joins debate

One of them is Annika Olsen, mayor of Tórshavn, who was the environment minister when the Faroese environmental policy was passed. Olsen recommends expanding the environmental policy to include a ban on plastic in 2030.

“This is not only good for the environment, but also for our international reputation as a fishery and tourism nation,” she says.

“Respect for the environment and a healthy economy go hand in hand, and this will continue to be the case because this is something that consumers demand.”

MP acknowledges climate change, but…

Responding to the backlash, Vestergaard later clarified his position on Facebook:

“I acknowledge that climate change is real, and there are many indications that it is man-made.

“I also acknowledge that climate change cannot be fully reversed, but if the nations of the world really try to find alternative energy solutions which do not hinder national progress, climate change can be controlled.

“But I also know that the Faroese greenhouse gas emissions make no difference on an international scale. It is just a tiny grain of sand on a huge beach, which is why I still believe that we should stop placing these heavy burdens on our people and our industry in an effort to reduce our insignificant CO2 emissions.”

Translated by prosa.fo