Miljøregelverk

Miljøregelverk is a Norwegian term for the body of environmental laws and regulations that govern the protection of air, water, soil, biodiversity, and natural resources, as well as the sustainable use of resources and pollution prevention. The framework combines primary legislation, implementing regulations, and guidelines, and is administered by central government ministries, most notably the Ministry of Climate and Environment, together with agencies such as the Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet) and other sector-specific authorities.

The general framework is anchored in the Environmental Act (Miljøloven) and supplemented by sector laws such as the Pollution Act (Forurensningsloven), the Water Resources Act (Vannressursloven), the Nature Diversity Act (Naturmangfoldloven), and the Planning and Building Act (Plan- og bygningsloven). These laws establish duties for business and public bodies, set permit regimes, impose reporting requirements, and outline sanctions for non-compliance. A key instrument is the permit system, including impact assessments for projects that may affect environments, and various licensing schemes for pollution, emissions, waste, and chemicals.

The rulebook is harmonized with European Union environmental directives through the EEA Agreement, so directives on water quality, air pollution, waste, nature protection, and chemical safety are implemented in Norwegian law. Enforcement combines inspections, monitoring, fines, and, when necessary, penalties or injunctions. Compliance is supported by monitoring programs, information disclosure, and public participation procedures in environmental impact assessments and permit processes.

In summary, the Miljøregelverk seeks to prevent damage to ecosystems, protect human health, and promote sustainable development through a layered system of laws, agencies, and regulatory instruments.