Miljømyndighetene

Miljømyndighetene refers to the environmental authorities in Norway. These bodies are responsible for implementing and enforcing environmental protection laws and regulations. The primary environmental authority at the national level is the Norwegian Environment Agency (Miljødirektoratet). This agency works under the Ministry of Climate and Environment and plays a crucial role in setting environmental standards, managing natural resources, and addressing pollution.

In addition to the national agency, there are county governors (statsforvalteren) in each county who also have significant environmental responsibilities. They handle local environmental matters, permit applications, and enforcement within their respective regions. Municipalities also have their own environmental departments, dealing with local issues such as waste management, local planning, and local environmental protection measures.

The collective mandate of Miljømyndighetene is to safeguard Norway's natural environment for present and future generations. This includes protecting biodiversity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, managing water resources, preventing pollution, and promoting sustainable land use. They work on a wide range of issues, from climate change adaptation and mitigation to conservation of species and habitats, and the management of hazardous waste. Their work involves research, monitoring, policy development, and collaboration with various stakeholders, including businesses, organizations, and the public.