Finland going carbon neutral by 2035: Niinistö

President Sauli Niinistö on Monday said that Finland is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 and aims to become first carbon negative industrial economy.

“Finland’s national climate targets now belong to the most ambitious ones in the world. Our government is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. We aim to become carbon negative soon after that, as the first industrial economy,” said Niinistö at the UN Climate Action Summit in New York.

According to the statement issued by the President Office, Niinistö said, “The task is demanding. We need to accelerate our emission reductions. And we need to strengthen our carbon sinks. But we also know that the technologies and innovations needed for this already exist.”

He, however, said that the bar has been set very high but wanted to lead by example. For that, setting targets is not sufficient. Achieving them is what matters.

“Moreover, we have a solid record on delivering on our earlier commitments. In 2015, Finland was among the first countries to adopt a Climate Act. We have banned the use of coal in energy production by 2029. The use of fossil oil in heating will end by 2030,” he said.

Pointing out the demand for urgent climate action by young generation, He said that the scientific case for the urgency of climate action is beyond any doubt. The demands from the young generation are loud and clear. Listening to their voice at the very start of this Summit was essential. If we fail, their future is at stake.

“A global shift to carbon neutrality means a comprehensive transformation of our societies. Halfway measures are not enough. We have to align all our policies with effective climate action,” Niinistö said.

He assured, “We in Finland are fully committed to decisive climate action. Globally, in coalitions with others, and nationally.”

Niinistö will attend on Tuesday the UN Secretary General’s State Luncheon, and a Reception hosted by President of the United States President Donald Trump.

On Wednesday, Niinistö will attend the UN Sustainable Development Summit and will chair a discussion on its actions. The summit will, among other things, assess the progress of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.