A cross-sectoral working group is proposing that Finland speed up its international competitiveness, national security and green transition as one entity. The group suggests that, for example, defence procurement could support solutions aimed at a carbon-neutral society.
A group convened by the University of Helsinki and Aalto University known as Ratkaisuryhmä (Solutions Circle in English) proposes solutions to strengthen Finland's international competitiveness, national security and green transition. In addition to university researchers, the group of 45 participants representing 25 organisations includes specialists from municipalities, businesses, startups, government ministries, foundations and funders.
One concrete proposal is that, in the coming years, substantial procurements that support defence and security of supply could be directed towards supporting the green transition towards a carbon-neutral society.
The group would drive Finland's competitiveness and green transition also by concentrating demand, increasing expertise and lobbying, investing in innovation and developing fair compensation .
"Public procurement accounts for as much as one-fifth of Finland's gross domestic product. It has real potential to generate demand that can help establish value chains to support the country's green transition," says Senior Specialist Jussi Impiö of Aalto University.
Procurement that prioritises, for example, green hydrogen, low-carbon construction materials, synthetic fuels or green steel can establish value chains strengthening Finland's international competitiveness.
"Promoting the green transition must remain at the forefront, even though security challenges and rising living costs are dominating public discourse," Impiö adds.
The Solutions Circle group emphasises that the simultaneous promotion of the green transition, national competitiveness and comprehensive security also requires the strategic allocation of research, development and innovation investments.
"Closer collaboration between ministries is also needed to effectively allocate RDI investments in support of the green transition. Stronger coordination is needed to bring climate, circular economy and innovation policies into line and increase their public support," says Specialist Elina Tanninen, who works in sustainability and responsibility at the University of Helsinki.
