The concept of a green shift has become more relevant because of the global environmental and climate challenges It is applied both broadly to a transformation of society as a whole and more specifically to changes in specific and individual areas. In the first case, the shift involves pursuing growth and development within the limits nature can tolerate. The second concerns a transition to products and services which have smaller negative consequences for the climate and the environment than they do today.

Terms such as green technology, green business development and green jobs are increasingly being used and are expected to be elements in a green shift.

Rana Utvikling is supporting Rana local authority in its efforts to facilitate the green shift and an environmental transformation of society. A number of specific projects concerning climate partnerships, intelligent transport, green procurement and a circular economy – all areas which involve both public- and private-sector enterprises – are promoting changes which help to convert society to a more sustainable mode.

A number of these projects are being realised through support schemes such as the Environmental Million, run by Nordland county council, and the Climate Commitment (Klimasats). While the first of these has helped to realise projects, the other is a national support scheme for climate-related measures by local government. It aims to help reduce the release of greenhouse gases and promote the transition to a low-emission society. The Climate Commitment also contributes to enhancing expertise and to the identification and realisation of further climate measures. The Environmental Million project, run by Nordland county council, and the Climate Commitment (Klimasats) has helped to realise projects.