Webinar – “From policy and public funding to practice and innovation: Norway's blueprint for sustainable development”

Norway is not only renowned for its breathtaking fjords and cutting-edge innovation—it is also a global frontrunner in the green transition. Over 90% of the country’s electricity is generated from renewable hydropower, and its sovereign wealth fund—the largest in the world, valued at over $1.8 trillion—actively excludes companies that fail to meet strict environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. This commitment to sustainability makes Norway a uniquely fertile ground for ESG-driven innovation and international collaboration.

This exclusive webinar, co-organized by Innovation Norway in France and the C3D (French Association of Sustainability Directors), invites French companies to discover the Norwegian sustainability landscape. Through official presentations, participants will gain a clear understanding of Norway’s progressive ESG policies, its economic resilience, and a regulatory framework that aligns closely with EU standards, including the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD).

The event will also feature insights from both Norwegian startups and French companies operating successfully in Norway. Their testimonies and pitches will provide a unique, hands-on perspective on how ESG principles are not just policy—but a powerful driver of business innovation and competitiveness in the Norwegian market.

Whether you're exploring Nordic expansion, seeking sustainable partnerships, looking for good practices and knowledge sharing, or aligning your business with global ESG standards, this webinar is your gateway to one of the world’s most green-thinking economies.

Join us and take part in shaping a greener future—together!

• 12:00 – 12:05

Opening remarks from Ole Denstad, First Secretary of the Norwegian Royal Embassy

• 12:05 – 12:10

Opening remarks from Jean-François Cognet, Director Corporate Social Responsibility, Orange Business

• 12:10 – 12:20

Overview of sustainability and ESG in Norway (overall policies, related key economic figures, energy profile, goals and ambitions, etc.) – Pierre Marcantoni, Senior Trade Advisor, Innovation Norway in Paris

• 12:20 – 12:35 Keynote

“Designing Social Sustainability: People, Process, Projects” – Oliver Page (Managing Director) – Snøhetta Paris

• 12:35 – 12:45 Pitch

Norwegian Company pitch – “Towards more sustainable and energy efficient buildings” – Petter Hatlem (Chairman of the Board) – SustEvo

• 12:45 – 13:00 Testimony

French Company operating in Norway pitch - “Delivering sustainable cloud services” - Michael Storrøsten, Vice President Datacenters - Orange Business

• 13:00 – 13:10

Norwegian Company pitch – “Circularity and sustainable solutions for industry” – Stephan Arino (Vice-President Public Affairs Western Europe) - Tomra AS

• 13:10 – 13:20

Q&A and closing remarks