Miljøministerier

Miljøministerier, or environment ministries, are government departments charged with formulating and implementing a country's environmental policy. The term is used in various Nordic and European languages; in English-language contexts they are usually called environment ministries, while the naming in the national language varies (for example Miljödepartementet in Sweden, Miljøministeriet in Denmark, Klima- og miljødepartementet in Norway).

They are typically led by an environment minister and include civil servants and directorates that handle climate policy, nature conservation, pollution control, waste management, and other related issues. The ministry sets policy directions, coordinates between agencies, and oversees regulatory instruments and public programs.

In many countries, these ministries collaborate with other ministries such as agriculture, industry, transport, health, and finance, and supervise national environmental agencies or laboratories. They prepare legislation, issue permits, set standards, monitor compliance, and administer programs aimed at environmental protection and sustainable development. Internationally, they implement obligations arising from regional or global frameworks, such as European Union directives or climate accords, and participate in negotiations and international cooperation.

The exact scope and structure vary: in some countries the environment portfolio is a standalone ministry; in others it is combined with energy, natural resources, or agriculture. In federal systems, environmental responsibilities may be shared with regional or state authorities and agencies.

The concept of dedicated environment ministries emerged as environmental concerns rose in the late 20th century, and many governments have kept or renamed these departments to reflect broader sustainability goals, including climate policy, biodiversity protection, and green growth.