People dining in Malmi during the Edible Helsinki week event. Photo: Liisa Takala
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The carbon footprint of Helsinki residents fell in 2024, with food consumption emissions now the lowest among participating Finnish cities, according to new data from the national Kulma project.
The consumption-based emissions of Helsinki residents totalled 9.5 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per person last year. This includes emissions from energy use, construction, transport, food, and the purchase of goods and services. While still far above climate targets, the data shows gradual progress.
“We’re getting more accurate information, especially about food consumption. It’s notable that among the participating cities, Helsinki has the smallest carbon footprint from food,” said Hanna Wesslin, Climate Director for the City of Helsinki.
Unlike traditional regional emissions reporting, which counts only emissions produced within a municipality’s borders, such as local energy production and agriculture, the consumption-based model accounts for all emissions generated by a resident’s consumption, regardless of where production occurs. This provides a broader picture of climate impact.
The data was gathered using refined methods developed by Sitowise and the Natural Re
Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
