Finland will not achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 through current government measures. Climate change cannot be viewed as a matter of opinion, because the triple planetary crisis, or global environmental changes caused by climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution, is already a reality. Our response to the crisis will determine the quality of life and the state of the environment for our generation and future generations.
The triple planetary crisis caused by human activity is one of the greatest challenges and generational policy issues of our time. The suffering, uncertainty and costs caused by crises disproportionately fall on the shoulders of future generations. Current measures will not enable future generations to inherit a liveable planet. Finland must commit to implementing ambitious climate policy for the sake of its own future as well. Finland will not be safe, financially sound and well-supplied without climate action.
Our economic growth has been based on the overconsumption of natural resources and is inevitably unsustainable. The impacts that the triple planetary crisis has on safety, the economy and security of supply are enormous, and some of them can no longer be prevented. In addition to prevention, society must also invest in adapting to changes. The government has not allocated sufficient funds even for the measures it has planned, and it has deferred many climate measures to the next government. Climate measures cannot be undertaken without the necessary funding. Making the world a better place requires action, not wishful thinking.
Decisions must be based on scientific data rather than political power dynamics. Waffling back and forth serves no purpose, least of all the future of Finland. We need a parliamentary agreement extending beyond the parliamentary term, in which a commitment to long-term climate action is made. The preparation of climate plans should be harmonised and better aligned with government term schedules. A commitment to climate goals makes the operating environment more predictable and thus more attractive for the green transition. The regulation and reporting of corporate responsibility must be improved to make communicating information about climate and environmental responsibility open, transparent, accessible and easy for everyone to assess. Young people’s right to a viable environment must be considered and carbon sinks and biodiversity strengthened in the use of forests and in natural resource policy.
Finland has a human rights-based obligation to contribute to mitigating climate change. Finland must ensure the fulfilment of human rights through adaptive measures and the regulation of private sector activities. While its share of global emissions is relatively small, Europe still plays an important role as a frontrunner. The obligation to carry out climate measures is not dependent on how large a country’s share of global emissions is. Finland can improve competitiveness and promote well-being by turning the green transition into a driver of economic growth.
Upcoming generations also have a right to life and a healthy environment. Let’s ensure that they can see the future.
Further information:
Emilia Enroth
Vice Chairperson
044 906 5003
emilia.enroth@syl.fi
