Finnish cities stick to climate policy goals despite recession

print this

In spite of the economic troubles, large cities in Finland are implementing concrete action to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
      A survey by Helsingin Sanomat reveals that cities hope to adhere to public transport investments, for instance, while taking advantage of lower construction costs resulting from the downturn.
      In a weak economic situation people drive less and industrial output decreases, directly reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
     
However, the fear is that a sluggish economy could also lead to the postponement of planned projects, notes Kalevi Luoma, an energy engineer at the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities.
      He points out there are no clear signs of projects being cancelled. “Actions by local authorities are at a moderate level so far.”
      “Stimulus money is available for profitable projects that save energy, which could promote projects”, Luoma says.
     
Representatives of large cities insist that they will not compromise on goals aimed at reducing greenhouse gases.
      The local authorities of the greater Helsinki area have committed themselves to a 39 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, compared with the level of 1990.
      Construction on a new commuter railway line will begin in Vantaa this year. The city itself is investing EUR 200 million in the project. The Marja-Vantaa district that is to be built next to rail line is to have a structural focus on public transport.
     
Espoo is also developing public transport by investing in the extension of the Metro. The city is further experimenting with the use of hybrid cars.
      The cars will be charged with electricity, and if the electricity is generated by renewable sources or nuclear power, greenhouse gas emissions will decline significantly.
      In Helsinki, the proportion of renewable energy is to be raised to 20 per cent. Helsinki Energy is planning extensive investments in wind power.
      Subsidies of public transport have been increased, and public transport has been growing in popularity.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Climate change: two degrees to disaster (29.10.2008)
  Vanhanen: Climate technology can help in downturn (17.10.2008)
  Study finds EU goal of 60 per cent cut greenhouse emissions to be attainable for Finland (8.9.2008)
  Pekkarinen: EU climate package progresses well for Finland (9.12.2008)

Helsingin Sanomat