Norwegian Hypocrisy Described in a Book: "Climate Heroes, Yet Building Wealth on Oil"

In her book, Röstlund examines to what extent the wealth derived from, among other sources, the North Sea has made Norwegians some of the happiest people in the world and, at the same time, the most dependent on oil and gas. The author shows that Norway's energy policy represents a kind of global contradiction: on the one hand, a pursuit of sustainable development, and on the other—a realization that giving up extraction could mean losing part of its prosperity.

Röstlund visits coastal communities that are increasingly feeling the effects of climate change. She talks to young people losing faith in the green transition and observes luxury consumerism during the ONS (Offshore Northern Seas) climate conference. She also examines the consequences of the landslide in Gjerdrum—a place that has become a symbol of the uncertainty rooted in an extraction-based economy.

The book sparks debate by posing fundamental questions: can Norway be both a role model and a "climate villain"? And if so—what does this mean for national identity and the country's future? Lisa Röstlund is known for her investigative publications—she previously published the book "Skogslandet" in 2022, dedicated to the Swedish forestry industry.

The Norwegian-language edition of "Norgesparadokset" is translated by Kristin Valla and is already available in Norway. In October, the author will participate in several festivals and conferences in Norway, where she will invite discussions on the topics raised in the book.