We are seeking emission reductions from the energy sector and exploring new ways to reduce road traffic emissions, which have decreased more slowly than anticipated.
Achieving carbon neutrality is possible within the next few years, provided that emissions from both district heating and separate heating systems decrease significantly and that there are substantial local reductions in road traffic emissions.
Carbon neutrality in Lahti means reducing emissions produced in the area by 80% from 1990 levels. The remaining emissions will be absorbed by local carbon sinks or offset. In 2022, Lahti’s emissions were about 67% lower than in 1990.
Updated climate program includes 96 actions
The city council approved the update to Lahti’s climate program in June 2023, which includes 96 climate actions. Moving forward, Lahti’s climate efforts will focus particularly on reducing traffic emissions, strengthening land-use carbon sinks, and integrating climate budgeting into financial planning. The carbon sink effect of forests and urban green areas will cover a significant part of the need for emission offsets.
Lahti aims to strengthen its position as a leader in national and international climate work. Achieving these goals requires active engagement and collaboration with residents, businesses, and associations. National climate policy must also continue on an ambitious path. Climate work will increasingly be carried out in collaboration with other cities as part of the EU’s Cities Mission.
Related article: Lahti awarded EU Mission Label and signs climate agreement with European Commission
The article has been published in Finnish in the city’s sustainability report 2023 and translated in English with the help of artificial intelligence.
Sustainability report presentation 2023 in English