The Oslofjord is one of Norway's most species-rich fjords. Its diverse landscape—including islands, islets, reefs, shallow mud and sand flats, and hard-bottom habitats—supports a rich biodiversity. However, the ecosystems of the Oslofjord are currently under severe pressure from various human activities. To address these challenges, a national action plan was adopted in 2021 to improve the fjord's environmental conditions. The main challenges are pollution from agriculture and sewage, constructions along the shoreline, over-fishing and climate change. One of the new radical measures is to introduce a ban on fishing in large parts of the fjord from 1st January 2026.
How can planning be utilized to enhance the overall environmental condition of the fjord and safeguard the function as an important recreational area for the local population and visitors?
This excursion includes a boat trip from Oslo City Centre to nearby islands (participants will need to purchase a public transport day ticket, approximately €15). The trip will reflect insights from the SITRAP Interdisciplinary Master Project, which has focused on the Oslofjord over the past three years. We will also meet one or more representatives for the management and planning of the Oslofjord. Participants will gain an understanding of the fjord's unique context and challenges.
From an educational planning perspective, this tour offers an opportunity to expand inter-disciplinary knowledge of research-based solutions to protect the Oslofjord's environment and wildlife. It also highlights the role of students and stakeholders, providing participants with real-life experiences and exposure to diverse perspectives.
The SITRAP interdisciplinary Master Project about the Oslofjord serves as a platform and arena for collaboration among NMBU researchers, students, local authorities, agencies, and other stakeholders.

Tour 1 Location: Outside Nobel Peace Center Time: 09.40

The Fjord City is approaching completion, and many of the projects that have been planned for decades have now materialized in Oslo’s urban landscape. Before the development of Hovinbyen, Fjord City represented the largest urban development project in Oslo. This walking tour aims to explore several key questions:

i) i) What can we learn from the processes of planning a waterfront city and inner harbour over a period of 20–30 years?
ii) ii) How have planning and green strategies developed over time within the Fjord City project?
iii) What are the socio-spatial implications of this transformation in a socially divided city such as Oslo?

The tour explores Oslo’s Fjord City, focusing on the city’s major waterfront redevelopment. Starting at the Opera House, the route continues through Bjørvika, the Barcode district, and the Munch Museum, before concluding at Aker Brygge (reached by public transport). Along the way, the tour highlights how ideals related to sustainability, accessibility, and urban branding have evolved over three decades of planning and development. From an educational planning perspective, the tour helps expand knowledge of research- and practice-based solutions in planning and urban regeneration processes, as well as the role of stakeholders.

Tour 2 Location: Outside Oslo Opera House Time: 10.00

Hovinbyen is the most significant (re)development area in Oslo today. Located on the urban fringe between the inner city and the Groruddalen valley, Hovinbyen serves as a compelling case study in contemporary urban transformation, sustainability, circularity, and governance. It addresses challenges related to densification, climate adaptation, walkability, and more.
Key questions to explore include:

• What can we learn from a redevelopment project with complex ownership patterns and significant infrastructural barriers?
• How can different public and private stakeholders collaborate effectively during various phases of planning and development?
• What are the future processes of planning in areas like this?

The tour will include input from stakeholders, walking tours, and potentially a bus ride from Økern to different areas within Hovinbyen.
From an educational planning perspective, the tour provides insights into research-based solutions for understanding urban transformation processes. It also highlights the role of stakeholders and interdisciplinarity in planning, offering participants real-life experiences and exposure to diverse perspectives.The SITRAP interdisciplinary master's project has generated new knowledge to better understand the challenges and opportunities in Hovinbyen. Additionally, the area features various platforms and arenas for collaboration between NMBU researchers, students, local authorities, agencies, and stakeholders, which will contribute to the input and tours.

Tour 3: Location: Økern T-bane (underground station) Time: 10.00