GREEN NATION

The theme "green nation" implies a focus on Denmark as a pioneering country in developing solutions for meeting some of today's greatest global challenges like climate change, sustainable economic growth and security of energy supply.  

As the first country in the world, Denmark has decided to lead the transition to become a green growth economy entirely independent of fossil fuels by 2050.

This ambitious goal rests on solid rock. Completely dependent on imported oil for decades, Denmark was severely affected by the oil crises of the 1970s. It was decided to take a new path to meet growing energy needs and, at the same time, to cater for environmental concerns. As a result, green issues such as energy efficiency, renewables, clean air and water and sustainable cities have become deeply embedded in the mindsets of the Danes.
And time has shown that economic and environmental policies can indeed go hand in hand. Since 1980, Denmark has grown to become a global leader in the development of new sustainable technologies and solutions. During the same period, the Danish economy has grown by almost 80 per cent without increasing gross energy consumption. Denmark is proud to be able to share its solutions and inspire nations, companies and citizens all over the world to invest in green growth.

Fossil free by 2050

Denmark’s decision to become independent of fossil fuels by 2050 will require an ambitious policy framework as well as a multiple-solutions approach. The ambitious goal will be reached by increasing energy efficiency and resource optimisation; by expanding the share of renewable energy from sources such as wind and biomass; and by driving the development of an intelligent energy system capable of managing the fluctuations of renewable energy.