Torunn G. Hønsi

Torunn G. Hønsi is a senior researcher and group leader at the Western Norway Research Institute (Vestlandsforsking), where she leads the Technology and Society Group. Since 2015, she has focused on sustainable circular economy policies, green business transformation, and the impacts of climate change on environmental toxins and pollution.

Education:

• Dr. scient. in Ecotoxicology, University of Oslo (2001)
• Main degree in Molecular Cell Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) (1995)

Research Focus:

Hønsi’s research bridges natural science and policy, addressing how climate change can alter the emission and toxicity of environmental contaminants. Her work spans from molecular ecotoxicology to large-scale policy implementation in circular economy and climate adaptation.

Key Projects:

• Teknojenter (2024–): Encouraging girls in technology and innovation.
• FØNIKS – From Ash to Biochar (2020–): Circular value chains for bio-waste.
• NORADAPT (2018–): National center for sustainable climate adaptation.
• Vannklimrisk (2020–): Water management under changing climate.
• ENABLING (2017–): Bio-based innovation networks for growth.

Publications & Dissemination:

Hønsi has authored or co-authored numerous reports, kronikks, and presentations. Her recent work includes critiques of Norway’s plastic agreement, cultural heritage as a driver for rural competitiveness, and the toxicological risks posed by climate change to aquatic environments.

Media Engagement:

She is a frequent contributor to NRK and other Norwegian media, discussing projects like Teknojenter and the intersection of climate change and environmental pollution.

Previous Roles:

• Associate Professor in Cell Biology, Physiology and Genetics, Western Norway University of Applied Sciences
• Lecturer in Natural Sciences, Luster Upper Secondary School
• Operations Manager, SIMAS (Sogn Intermunicipal Waste Company)
• Risk Assessor, Norwegian Institute of Public Health
• Inspector, County Governor’s Environmental Division, Sogn og Fjordane