Summary How close is Finland to hitting 2035 carbon-neutral target? | Sustainability Magazine sustainabilitymag.com
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One Line
Finland is determined to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, and has already made notable progress through sustainability awards and initiatives.
Slides
Slide Presentation (8 slides)
Key Points
- Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035.
- The goal was announced in 2019 by then-prime minister Antti Rinne.
- The target was set following negotiations with five parliamentary parties.
- Finland's progress towards the target is not on track, according to the OECD.
- Greenhouse gas emissions in Finland have fallen by 9% from the previous year.
- Finland still produces 1.5% of the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions.
- Lahti was chosen as the 2021 European Green Capital.
Summaries
17 word summary
Despite challenges, Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035. Notable achievements include sustainability awards and initiatives.
71 word summary
Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, but faces challenges in meeting its target. Despite a 9% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions, waste generation, material consumption, forest use intensity, and nutrient pollution hinder progress. Finland still contributes 1.5% of the EU's total emissions. However, notable achievements include sustainability awards and initiatives such as carbon taxation and sustainable practices through the Forest Act. Finland is positioned as a leader in sustainability.
141 word summary
Finland aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, an ambitious goal set in 2019. Despite being a leader in environmental policy, Finland is facing challenges in meeting its target. While greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 9% since 2019, waste generation, material consumption, forest use intensity, and nutrient pollution are hindering progress. Finland still contributes 1.5% of the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions. However, there have been notable achievements in sustainability. Lahti was named the 2021 European Green Capital, and Lappeenranta received the 2021 European Green Leaf Award for their contributions to renewable energy and circular economy. Finland's commitment extends beyond its borders with the introduction of carbon taxation and the implementation of sustainable practices through its Forest Act. Although challenges remain, Finland's dedication to sustainability is evident in its policies and achievements, positioning it as a leader in the field.
303 word summary
Finland set a goal in 2019 to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, making it one of the world's earliest timelines for this target. The goal was proposed by then-prime minister Antti Rinne and was agreed upon by five parliamentary parties. Rinne emphasized the need to invest in the future and included increased welfare spending in the country's climate strategy. The target was later reviewed in 2025, and Finland remains committed to reaching carbon neutrality by 2035.
Despite being a leader in environmental policy and sustainable development, Finland is not entirely on track to meet its carbon neutrality target. While greenhouse gas emissions have fallen by 9% since 2019, other factors such as waste generation, material consumption, intensity of forest use, and nutrient pollution are hindering progress. Finland still produces 1.5% of the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions.
However, there have been notable achievements in Finland's sustainability efforts. Lahti was chosen as the 2021 European Green Capital, and the city of Lappeenranta received the 2021 European Green Leaf Award. Both cities have made significant contributions to renewable energy, circular economy, and water technology. Approximately 12% of Lappeenranta's working population is employed in the environmental and cleantech sectors.
Finland's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own borders. The country was the first to introduce and implement carbon taxation. Through its Forest Act, Finland ensures that four new trees are planted for every felled tree. These initiatives demonstrate Finland's dedication to mitigating climate change and promoting sustainable practices.
In conclusion, while Finland has made progress towards its carbon neutrality target, there are still challenges to overcome. The country must address factors such as waste generation, material consumption, forest use, and nutrient pollution to achieve its goals. However, Finland's commitment to sustainability is evident in its environmental policies and achievements, making it a leader in the field.