Minister Sandvik to Assume Responsibilities During Eriksen’s Parental Leave in Norway

Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen is set to take parental leave starting September 2, 2023, until the end of the year after welcoming his second child in January. During Eriksen’s absence, Tore O. Sandvik, who previously served as the county mayor of Trøndelag from 2003 to 2023 and is currently a state secretary in the Ministry of Trade, will assume his responsibilities.

Environmental organizations have expressed their expectations regarding Sandvik’s new role. Karoline Andaur, Secretary General of WWF Norway, emphasized the importance of Sandvik’s commitment to strong environmental policies, following the government’s guidance in the Hurdalsplattform highlighting nature and climate as the framework for all policies. Meanwhile, Truls Gulowsen, head of the Norwegian Society for the Conservation of Nature, remarked on the unexpected appointment of someone not known for environmental advocacy to such a significant ministerial position, while expressing hopes for a constructive collaboration.

Sandvik’s tenure will not only involve routine ministerial duties but also significant international matters. A new action plan for nature is anticipated to be presented at the end of September, coinciding with developments from the nature summit in Canada two years ago, where a global agreement was established. Sandvik will lead the Norwegian delegation at the upcoming Nature Summit in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1. The 29th COP climate summit will follow shortly after, taking place in Baku, Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22, where the focus will be on critical issues like climate financing.

Additionally, a climate report is slated for release in spring 2025, with expectations for strong proposals on nature conservation and substantial emission reductions during Sandvik’s caretaker period.