The greenhouse gas emissions of Turku could be reduced by as much as 80 percent by 2030. In order to reach the goal, more sustainable transport systems, action by the city concern, and strong participation by citizens, companies, and communities is required in the fight against the climate change. Many notable companies have already actively joined in the construction of a carbon-neutral economy.

Turku City Council set the 2020 climate goal already in 2009 to be at least a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the level of 1990. The aim of Turku for 2040 is to be an entirely carbon-free urban area.

Turku is already going to reach its goal for 2020. The city has worked together with Sitra on its next goal, the 80 percent emission reduction by 2030, since spring 2015. Finnish Environment Institute SYKE has also given professional support for the cause.

The key tool for reaching the goal of 80 percent reduction is the strengthening of sustainable energy systems, transporting systems, and the urban structure supporting them. Noteworthy measures that have already been initiated in Turku include the investments in renewable energy and the development of regional public transport. A crucial line of policy is also the building of sustainable development and green economy together with companies, communities, and citizens.

Companies to develop low-carbon solutions

The aim of Turku City is to strengthen also the possibilities of companies in the area to develop low-carbon solutions for global demand. The Turku region maritime industry, for example, already has a strong environmental profile which shows in all recent ship orders. The joint BASTU initiative of companies and the Finland Futures Research Centre has also been started under the auspices of the co-operation between Turku City and Sitra. The initiative has already engaged 40 companies and communities to actively develop circular economy.

Next, Turku and Sitra will conduct research on how to speed up the development of the energy sector towards a smart energy system that operates with renewable forms of energy, and how this will strengthen the economy and innovation activity of the Turku region. A new measure that has been approved to be launched is the circular economy test initiative for textiles that was prepared by Turku university of Applied Sciences, Lounais-Suomen Jätehuolto (Southwest Finland Waste Management), and other partners.

Lines of climate policy, a roadmap for a resource-wise city, and the development projects of energy and circular economy have been prepared in a joint steering group of Turku and Sitra. The steering group includes Mayor of Turku Aleksi Randell and President of Sitra Mikko Kosonen, as well as other persons in charge from Turku City, Sitra, Turku Energia, and Lounais-Suomen Jätehuolto. The steering group last met on 30 October 2015.