Emission reduction targets

Helsinki aims to reduce emissions by 85 percent from 1990 levels by 2030. The target applies to direct emissions (Scope 1 and 2). A net-zero target has been set for 2040, which means that the city’s emissions and sinks are in balance: greenhouse gases can only be produced in amounts that natural sinks or other removals – such as technical and biological carbon removal solutions – can absorb.

The most significant sources of direct emissions in Helsinki are heating, transport and electricity. Carbon neutrality can be achieved especially with energy efficiency measures in buildings, low-emission transport solutions and increasing the share of renewable energy in heat and electricity production.

You can follow the implementation of the programme’s measures and emission reductions on the Monitoring the emissions reduction page.

The change is made together

However, the city can only influence part of the emissions generated in Helsinki. In addition, indirect emissions outside the area are excluded from the carbon neutrality target. Most of both direct and indirect emissions are caused by the housing, transport and consumption of Helsinki residents. That is why all Helsinki residents are needed to curb climate change.