Miljödomstolen

Miljödomstolen, or the Environmental Court, was a specialized court in Sweden responsible for handling cases related to environmental law. Established in 1999, it was an integral part of the Swedish legal system, designed to address the complexities of environmental protection and resource management. The court was organized into several regional divisions, each with jurisdiction over a specific geographical area.

The Miljödomstolen's primary function was to adjudicate cases involving permits for activities that could impact the environment, such as industrial operations, construction projects, and the extraction of natural resources. It reviewed applications, assessed environmental risks, and made decisions on whether to grant, modify, or deny permits, often with specific conditions attached. The court also handled disputes related to environmental damage, pollution, and the enforcement of environmental legislation.

Appeals from decisions made by environmental licensing boards were typically heard by the Miljödomstolen. The court's rulings aimed to balance economic development with the need for environmental protection, considering scientific evidence, expert opinions, and the public interest. The establishment of Miljödomstolen reflected Sweden's commitment to a robust framework for environmental governance and sustainable development. In 2016, the Miljödomstolen was integrated into the general courts, with its functions now being handled by the Land and Environment Courts, which operate under the same principles.