Crown Prince Haakon joined researchers from the University of Oslo on a research trip in the Oslo Fjord to learn about the current state of fish life and the efforts being made to monitor it. His Royal Highness was keen to learn more about claims that cod populations were recovering in the fjord.
The University of Oslo has been monitoring fish life in the Inner Oslofjord on behalf of the Faculty Council for the Inner Oslofjord since 2011. This involves conducting a trawl at a depth of 100 meters in the Steilene archipelago near Nesodden every four months. These surveys are conducted by researchers from the University of Oslo aboard the research vessel Trygve Braarud, with the assistance of the crew and skipper Sindre Holm.
During the research trip, Crown Prince Haakon assisted in counting and identifying the fish caught in the trawl. The catch included twenty cod, thirty-four pollock, twenty whitefish, five silver cod, and seventeen flounder, representing a diverse range of species. However, the researchers emphasised that it is important to remember that the presence of a few more cod does simply not mean the fjord is healthy. They noted that the overall ecosystem is not in a good state.
The researchers have observed significant changes in the fish populations of the Inner Oslofjord over the past decade. They have noted a decline in several species of bottom-dwelling fish, but an increase in whiting. Notably, the cod population has also returned to the area. According to Professor Ketil Hylland, the trawls were empty of cod just 6-7 years ago, but now they are catching around twenty cod in a single haul.
Crown Prince Haakon has shown great commitment to protecting the environment and promoting sustainable development. He has participated in several events and campaigns to raise awareness of climate change and environmental issues, and has also worked closely with organisations and the government to promote sustainable solutions.
One of his main focus areas is the marine environment. He has taken part in several research trips to the sea to learn more about the state of the fisheries and what can be done to protect them.
The Crown Prince has also been an active supporter of reducing Norway’s greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. His Royal Highness has also been an important voice in Norway to raise awareness of environmental problems and sustainable development among young people.
