Open Access Government presents the policies of the Icelandic Ministry of the Environment, Energy, and Climate, which develops and enforces government policy on environmental issues

The Icelandic Ministry of the Environment, Energy, and Climate is responsible for formulating and enforcing government policy regarding environmental issues.

The ministry oversees various aspects of nature in Iceland, including climate change, conservation, outdoor recreation, national parks, animal protection, wildlife management, pollution prevention, planning and construction, fire prevention, weather forecasting, avalanche protection, surveying and cartography, plus forestry and soil conservation. Additionally, it manages environmental monitoring and surveillance. ⁽¹⁾

During his time in Parliament, Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson has held positions on several committees, including the Economic Affairs and Trade Committee (2021–2023), the Welfare Committee (2023–2024), and the Budget Committee (2023). Since 2024, Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson has been Minister of the Environment, Energy and Climate in Iceland. ⁽²⁾

Environment, energy and climate policy overview

Iceland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040 and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030, in accordance with the Paris Agreement. The Climate Action Plan, updated in 2024, outlines 150 actions and serves as Iceland’s primary policy instrument for meeting its emission reduction goals and achieving carbon neutrality.

Iceland’s emissions profile is unique in several respects. Nearly all electricity and heating generation comes from renewable sources, specifically geothermal and hydro energy. The country has significant potential for carbon uptake through afforestation and revegetation, as well as opportunities to reduce soil emissions by restoring drained wetlands. The most significant sources of emissions, aside from land use, include road transport, industrial processes, waste management, agriculture, and fisheries.

The Icelandic Climate Action Plan includes 150 actions to help Iceland meet its Paris Agreement targets for 2030 and achieve the government’s goal of the country becoming carbon neutral by 2040.

Iceland is dedicated to reducing emissions by 55% by 2030, as part of a collective effort by 29 European countries. The country has an agreement with the European Union (EU) and Norway and follows similar climate regulations, including taking part in the EU Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS).

The impacts of climate change on nature and society

We hear that the Icelandic Government has engaged three scientific assessments to evaluate the impacts of climate change on society and nature. Notable impacts include expanding woodlands, receding glaciers, and increased natural disasters. Of notable concern is “ocean acidification and its possible impact on marine life and fisheries”.

Finally, scientific assessments have identified key areas of concern for adaptation, particularly regarding changes in river flows and sea levels. It is definitely worth reading In View of the Climate Crisis – Iceland’s Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change. So, we wish the Icelandic Ministry of the Environment, Energy, and Climate the best in their future policy efforts, many of which we have discussed here. ⁽¹⁾

References

1. https://www.government.is/ministries/ministry-of-the-environment-energyand-climate
2. https://www.government.is/ministries/ministry-of-the-environment-energyand-climate/minister-/