Climate change is one of the most critical issues facing humanity, and solving the sustainability crisis will require prompt and systemic changes in society. In addition to facing exceptionally rapid changes such as the rise in sea levels and increased rainfall, temperatures in Finland are forecasted to rise faster than the global average—by 2.3 to 6 ℃ by the end of the century. However, in terms of climate change mitigation and adaptation, Finland is one of the world’s most ambitious countries. Finland sets the example, as a global frontrunner within these efforts, becoming a pioneer in climate action policies.
With Finland's aim to become climate neutral by 2035 and to be the world’s first fossil-free welfare society, the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan 2022, is set to come into force on July 1, 2022. The previous Climate Change Act came into force in 2015 but only set an emission reduction target for 2050. This new act includes emission reduction targets for both 2030 and 2040 as well. The overall aim of the new plan is for Finnish society to adequately manage the risks associated with and adapt to climate change in the future. The objectives of the plan include the following:
Adaptation has been integrated into the planning and activities of both the various sectors and their actors.
This would be done by improving the cross-cutting elements of adaptation by integrating them into the key steering instruments, especially legislation and financial steering. International activity is also key to supporting the advancement of developing countries.
The actors have access to the necessary climate change assessment and management methods.
This would be done by developing and using the current risk assessment and management tools and by conducting the assessments in collaboration with climate change and risk management experts. Training and advice on risk assessment methods and practices would also be needed.
Research and development work, communication and education and training have enhanced the adaptive capacity of society, developed innovative solutions and improved citizens’ awareness on climate change adaptation.
This would be done by conducting research to further understand the impacts of climate change and improving communication so sectors, companies, municipalities, and private citizens will have a better understanding of the risks of climate change and begin promoting adaptation on their own initiative.
This plan allows for adaptation necessary to secure the preservation of biodiversity and the functioning of ecosystems. It also reduces the risks relating to urban landscaping, cultural heritage, waters, biodiversity, human health, and utilization of natural resources. The adaptation plan further promotes the capacity of the Finnish society to adapt to climate change and its consequences.
To reach their aim, the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan specifies the key measures in support of adaptation to be implemented in the next few years. Finland hopes that the plan will help it to achieve its objectives, which include strengthening carbon sinks and stocks, reducing the carbon footprint of construction and housing, halting the decline in biodiversity, implementing a climate-friendly food policy, improving the environmental protection of mines, and promoting overall sustainability.
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Published July 9, 2022
Written by Gerselle Koh ~ Edited by Alex Truong ~ Graphics created by Fiona Xu
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