miljøforskning

Miljøforskning is a cross-disciplinary field focused on understanding the interactions between humans and the natural environment. It encompasses natural and social sciences and engineering, aiming to describe environmental processes, assess impacts of human activity, and support evidence-based decision making.

The field covers topics such as climate change, air and water quality, soil, biodiversity, ecosystem services, and sustainable development. It includes both basic research to advance knowledge and applied research to inform policy, industry, and public planning.

Methods include field observations, laboratory experiments, environmental monitoring, modeling, remote sensing, life cycle assessment, risk assessment, and policy analysis. It aims to generate knowledge that can be translated into practical solutions for managing resources and reducing harm.

Institutions involved include universities, research institutes, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. Funding comes from national research councils, ministries, European Union programs, and international bodies. In Norway and other contexts, miljöforskning is often aligned with environmental policy, climate action, and sustainable development goals, and has evolved in response to pollution, biodiversity loss, and climate change.