Norwegian Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen goes on parental leave, Tore O. Sandvik appointed interim minister

Norwegian Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen will be on parental leave starting September 2nd and lasting until the end of the year, following the birth of his second child in January. Tore O. Sandvik, previously the County Mayor of Trøndelag from 2003 to 2023, has been appointed to step in as the new minister.

Karoline Andaur, Secretary-General of WWF Norway, expressed anticipation regarding Sandvik’s ambitions, noting he has not previously been a strong advocate for environmental policies. She emphasized the need for Sandvik to ensure Norway adheres to its commitments to enhance nature conservation and reduce emissions.

Truls Gulowsen, leader of the Nature Conservation Association, expressed surprise at Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre’s choice, given Sandvik’s minimal prior engagement on environmental issues. Nonetheless, he looks forward to collaborative efforts, confident that Sandvik will quickly get up to speed.

As the interim minister, Sandvik will tackle several significant international and domestic issues. A crucial national action plan for nature is expected to be presented at the end of September or beginning of October, following commitments made during the global Nature Summit in Canada two years ago. Furthermore, Sandvik will lead the Norwegian delegation at the Nature Summit (COP16) in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, which will assess the status of implementing the Nature Agreement.

He will also play a major role at this year’s Climate Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to 22, where climate financing will be a key topic. During Eriksen’s leave, efforts will continue to formulate a climate report set to be released in spring 2025, with expectations for significant policy proposals aimed at nature protection and emissions cuts.