Global solutions

History has shown us that it is possible to solve major worldwide problems when countries work towards solutions together. Like the Montreal Protocol of 1987, which helped save the ozone layer. 

In recent years, the international community, through the UN, has entered into several agreements that will help solve a number of challenges: to mitigate climate change and keep the global temperature below 1.5°C (as agreed in the Paris Agreement from 2015), reduce plastic pollution (the plastic agreement from March 2022) and stop the loss of biodiversity (the nature agreement from December 2022). 

The less discussed Minamata Convention from 2013 is intended to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic mercury emissions. In the process leading up to the final agreement, Norwegian and Arctic research was central. 

Developing new knowledge, tools and technology is the primary task of research. With challenges as complex as those we face today, research must be both interdisciplinary and international. 

This is how NIVA can contribute 

NIVA has a broad research environment working in the interface between environment and society, with experts in ecology, environmental law, economics, environmental management and political ecology. 

Our geographical focus is broad, and our project portfolio ranges from Norway via the Arctic and Europe to China, Southeast Asia and Africa. NIVA has contributed with water expertise in more than 70 countries. 

We have organised our international activities in four areas: 

1. We participate in EU research programmes and thereby develop expertise that expands and strengthens our position. 

2. We participate in a number of international forums. Through our networks, we build and share expertise with other professional communities and administrative bodies. 

3. We have projects in development research and assist Norwegian authorities in implementing their development strategies. 

4. We carry out consultancy assignments abroad and assist authorities and businesses to solve their environmental challenges and improve environmental management. 

NIVA has established subsidiaries in Chile and China, and we have a regional office in Copenhagen. 

Why does NIVA work with global solutions? 

In our view, international work is a prerequisite for high-quality research and for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. NIVA will therefore continue to strengthen our position in Europe through increased participation in EU research programmes. We will continue to be an important contributor to Norway's environmental cooperation and research in low- and middle-income countries and will support the process towards global environmental agreements. 

Contact us if you want to know more about our international efforts.