Authors: Iversen, Anders;

The presentation will contribute with the observations, experiences and reflections from the point of view of the Environment Agency on the aspect of environmental governance for protecting and restoring Riparian Zones in Norway. The presentation will look specifically at examples and experiences concerning the roles and interplay of different actors like research institutions, authorities at different levels, and NGOs.

The Research Institutions develop the knowledge base for decisionmakers, for instance the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) and the Norwegian Institute of Water Research (NIVA).

The Central Government (ministries and agencies) develop the national Legal Requirements and Guidelines for environmental policy, land use planning, environmental impact assessment etc. Responsibilities are divides between different authorities, creating challenges for integration of objectives and coordination of activities.

Regional authorities are key to translating the national policy into action, when they develop River Basin Management Plans, as well as advising and inspecting the local authorities (municipalities) who are the actual decisionmakers concerning land use.

There are also dedicated environmental NGOs making use of the knowledge and working in more creative ways to conscientize the public, aiming to influence policy.