IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute

About IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute

IVL Svenska Miljöinstitutet is an independent research institute focused on environmental and sustainability issues. It combines applied research with consulting assignments to help companies, public authorities, municipalities, and other organizations address environmental challenges and support the transition to a more sustainable society.

The institute works across the full sustainability spectrum, from traditional environmental science to economics, behavioral science, and social science. IVL positions itself as a bridge between research and practice, turning science into real-world solutions and supporting both Swedish environmental goals and the global Sustainable Development Goals.

Founded in 1966 by the state and industry, IVL operates as a non-profit company whose surplus is reinvested in research and development. It has a broad expert base, a strong presence in Sweden and Europe, and international operations in countries including China, India, Colombia, and Jordan.

Core Values

• Scientific rigor: IVL emphasizes that its work is based on science, high-quality research, and objective decision support. Its code of conduct and quality systems reinforce professionalism, integrity, and credibility.
• Collaboration: The institute values cooperation internally and externally, and it actively works with businesses, authorities, universities, and research organizations to create better outcomes.
• Forward-looking solutions: IVL aims to anticipate challenges and develop long-term, sustainable solutions. Its vision is a sustainable society, and it frames its role as turning environmental challenges into opportunities.
• Sustainability in practice: IVL’s own policies stress resource efficiency, climate-smart choices, reduced transport emissions, and minimizing its own environmental impact while contributing to broader sustainability goals.

Unique Aspects

• Long-standing state-industry foundation: IVL was founded jointly by the Swedish state and industry in 1966 and is owned by the SIVL foundation, with equal representation from business and government in its governance structure.
• Broad environmental expertise: The institute says it has Sweden’s broadest environmental profile, with experts spanning natural sciences, engineering, behavioral science, economics, and social science.
• International footprint: IVL operates from offices in Sweden and abroad, including Beijing, Wuhan, Mumbai, Bogotá, and Amman, and it carries out research and consulting work in Europe and beyond.
• Subsidiary and platform ecosystem: IVL owns or co-owns several specialized companies and platforms, including EPD International, BASTAonline, Möbelfakta, eBVD, IVL Sustainable Building, and Clean Shipping Index, giving it a distinctive reach into construction, product data, and maritime sustainability.
• PFAS leadership: According to known news, IVL has more than 20 years of PFAS experience and operates advanced PFAS laboratories in Stockholm and Gothenburg, with capabilities including high-resolution mass spectrometry, combustion ion chromatography, TOP assay, and EOF analysis.