Almedalen Week: Nordic countries in forefront for green growth

During the Almedalen Week in Visby, NIB and the Nordic Council of Ministers gathered politicians and representatives from financial institutions, businesses and environmental organisations to discuss how to combine economic growth with environmental sustainability.

NIB Newsletter asked the key participants how the Nordic countries can best contribute to green growth.

Alexander Stubb, Minister for Europe and Foreign Trade, Finland:
We should invest in green growth by investing in research and development in the Nordic countries. The Nordic economy needs a new engine driven by renewable energy.

Erik Åsbrink, Member of NIB’s Board of Directors:
The Nordic countries can contribute via NIB, which focuses on loan financing to environmental projects. The Nordic countries are at the forefront and have high ambitions concerning the environment, and we should spread this engagement also outside our own region.

Klas Eklund, senior economist, SEB:
We can contribute to green growth in two ways, firstly by further developing green technology in which we are already doing well, such as in next generation biomass, wind power and carbon capture and storage. Second, we can assist poorer nations through trade with emission rights, climate aid and technical consulting. One example is Sweden’s contribution with helping China to handle their rapid urbanisation by building green cities.

Johnny Åkerholm, President and CEO, NIB:
With our experience and shared values the Nordic countries could strengthen their contribution in two areas. First, they should more actively strive to have their voice heard when the guidance for markets is being formulated globally. Second, research and development is a strong Nordic asset.

Ewa Björling, Minister for Trade, Sweden:
Find common research areas and share test centres as well as good examples. We should be at the forefront when it comes to standardisation and certification. The Nordic countries should unite in the demand for a global free trade agreement, one that removes trade barriers on environmentally friendly goods and services and green technology.