Jonas Gustavsson

Fossil Detox - Message from the CEO

Towards a fossil-free future

As we strive towards a new era, the imperative to transition from fossil fuels to fossil-free sources has never been more pressing. The ongoing global climate crisis, highlighted by extreme weather events and rising sea levels, demands immediate and concerted action.

At AFRY, we are committed to standing at the forefront of this transformation, not just as a business imperative but as a moral obligation to future generations.

The transition to fossil-free energy is not a singular path but a multifaceted journey involving various technologies and strategies. Renewable energies such as wind, solar, and hydropower are at the core of this shift. Offering sustainable, low-emission alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, renewables provide the backbone for a fossil-free energy system. However, the transition goes beyond simply replacing one form of energy with another or construction material with another; it requires an overhaul of our entire energy and industrial infrastructure.

One of the critical components of this transformation is the development and deployment of intelligent energy networks. These smart grids are essential for integrating intermittent renewable energy sources in a way that safeguards reliable and efficient energy distribution. By utilising advanced analytics and automation, it is within our reach to optimise energy use, reduce losses, and enhance the resilience of our energy systems.

Energy storage also plays a pivotal role in this shift. Storage technologies such as battery storage and pumped hydro storage enable us to deposit excess energy generated during periods of high renewable output for use when demand is higher than supply. This capability is crucial for grid stabilisation and to ensure a consistent energy supply, even when renewable generation is variable.

Jonas Gustavsson
"Ultimately, transitioning away from fossil fuels and fossil-based materials is not just a technical or economic challenge—it is a societal imperative."

Carbon capture and storage (CCS) represents an important component in the wider decarbonisation journey. In addition to the shift from fossil-based generation to renewables, which reduces the flow of new carbon emissions, CCS allows us to address the legacy of past emissions and continue to mitigate emissions from necessary fossil fuel use during the transition period. This technology can capture up to 90% of the CO2 emissions produced from fossil fuel use in electricity generation and industrial processes, providing a critical bridge as we move towards a fully renewable energy future.

The bioindustry and forest industry also play significant roles in the transition. Sustainable forestry and the use of biomass for energy and materials offer renewable resources that can replace fossil-based products.

Achieving this transition requires a comprehensive approach involving governments, industry stakeholders, civil society, and communities. Policy measures such as carbon pricing and renewable energy incentives, alongside international cooperation, are essential for success. Ultimately, transitioning away from fossil fuels and fossil-based materials is not just a technical or economic challenge—it is a societal imperative. It demands political will, public engagement, and visionary leadership to pave the way for a sustainable and equitable energy future.

At AFRY, we believe that this transition not only presents challenges, but also opportunities. By embracing innovation and collaboration, we can build towards a sustainable future that supports economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Fossil detox is more than a technological transition; it is a transformation of our economies, our communities and our way of life. Let us seize this moment to create a brighter, cleaner future for all.

 

Jonas Gustavsson
President and CEO, AFRY

An abandoned petrol gas station in the countryside

The Fossil Detox Report

The Fossil Detox Report explores the path towards a sustainable future by transitioning away from fossil fuels and mitigate the effects of climate change.