The Nordic countries have the potential to lead the world in green innovation and sustainable business. Together, the Nordic countries would rank as the 12th largest economy and the most sustainable one in the world. We can show how climate action and competitiveness go hand in hand. Yet, fragmented systems and policies hold us back. By uniting efforts, aligning regulations, and fostering collaboration, we can unlock the full potential of a truly sustainable Nordic economy – one that inspires businesses and policymakers worldwide.

On Monday 3rd of December, we hosted the webinar “Climate and business: How can the Nordic green transition accelerate in a world of growing geopolitical uncertainty?“. This is part of the vision project Climate Neutral Nordics, organised by the Haga Initiative in collaboration with Skift – Business Climate Leaders (Norway) and Climate Leadership Coalition (Finland), financed by the Nordic Council of Ministers.

Watch the webinar here.

Read quotes from the panellists below.

Mats Engström, Senior Advisor, SIEPS:

“The global market is still growing for low carbon technologies, but also for other technologies. Looking at Europe, regardless of new legislation and potential setbacks to Fit for 55, implementation will mean a lot of business opportunities in Europe. Over a longer time perspective, the green agenda in Europe has grown over the years thanks to Nordic countries that have driven those policies over the years.”

Tuuli Kaskinen, CEO, Climate Leadership Coalition:

“In the Nordics, it’s clear that we have been able to create a more predictable and planned vision on how to work with climate change, and that is something we sometimes forget. Being part of the Nordic community, Nordic companies play an important role in international negotiations. Because for our companies the global change related to climate legislation and climate governments are a very important part for the climate as well as for market creation, because our companies are the forerunner of green business.”

Björn K Haugland, CEO, Skift – Business Climate Leaders:

“In the Nordic innovation project, we have explored the Nordic region to be a test bed for new technology and innovations. It’s a real opportunity for the Nordic region because we have a shared vision to develop the most sustainable region in the world. That vision of the Nordic Council of Ministers is very inspirational for us and our collaboration. Especially because the Nordic region has trust which is the key to fostering innovation, both for technology and business models.”

Sara Davidsson, Sustainability & Compliance Director, Stena Recycling AB:

“Politics can phase out fossil fuel subsidies, support energy efficiency and take action in public procurement. We have taken part together with several companies with Haga Initiative in bringing tools to the public procurement in our business area, so we know they are in place but they are not used to the extent that they could be. We need to fill the gap on what we are doing with the knowledge on a decision-making level.”

 Maria Sandell, Head of Sustainability, JM:

“The most important thing at the moment is leadership. To showcase good examples that are in place already and bring these questions to the table. That is something that the politicians can help us with. Listen to what the company needs. The second most important thing, in my mind, is that carbon pricing would also help.”

​​Dan Koivulaakso, Head of Department/Growth & Climate, Nordic Council of Ministers:

“It’s crystal clear from all the reports and analysis that we have further need for strengthening cross-border collaboration and expanding knowledge sharing between the Nordics and all of its sectors. This is what we are trying to achieve and where I think the Council of Nordic Ministers have a task.”

Nina Ekelund, CEO, Haga Initiative:

“We need to collaborate within the Nordics. We can contribute. Nordic countries are highly motivated and are front runners. But we need action, and we need action now. We need leadership, and we need leadership now. Use the energy from the business to speed up the green transition.”