Norway Govt to Deny Contracts to Companies Driving Forest Loss

In a bold move that positions Norway as a global leader in environmental stewardship, the Norwegian government has pledged to eliminate deforestation from all public procurement. This means that any company seeking a government contract must prove its operations are free from deforestation—a first-of-its-kind national policy that could reshape global supply chains and climate diplomacy.

A Policy Rooted in Urgency

• Deforestation contributes ~15% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
• Norway’s policy builds on its 2014 UN Climate Summit pledge with Germany and the UK.
• Unlike others, Norway has now embedded this commitment into its procurement rules.

What the Ban Covers

Policy Area	Details
Public Procurement Reform	All government contracts must meet deforestation-free criteria.
Commodity Scrutiny	Products like palm oil, soy, beef, and timber will be rigorously vetted.
Supply Chain Transparency	Companies must provide traceable documentation proving no forest degradation.

Global Ripple Effects

• Corporate Accountability: Suppliers may need to revise practices to stay eligible.
• Climate Diplomacy: Norway’s stance could influence EU and global standards.
• Financial Leverage: Norway backs its policy with funding, like $1B to Brazil’s Amazon Fund.

Why This Matters

Norway’s forests are largely intact—this policy is about global responsibility. By leveraging its purchasing power, Norway is pushing for systemic change in how goods are produced and traded worldwide.

This isn’t just procurement reform. It’s a moral stance, a climate strategy, and a challenge to other nations: If Norway can do it, why can’t you?