By sustainability, we mean that our activities do not put more of a strain on nature than it can sustain. It also means taking care of the wellbeing of Helsinki residents.
The Urban Environment Division’s activities are steered by six sustainability principles that support the City’s commitment to pursuing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We are challenging our practices and way of thinking to achieve more sustainable solutions in the urban environment.
Our sustainability principles
1. We are actively pursuing nature positivity
We preserve and increase biodiversity, both in natural areas and in the built environment. We strengthen the ability of organisms and the ecosystems formed by their habitats to recover from the strain caused by climate change and increasing recreational use. In the built environment, we use nature-based (i.e. nature-mimicking) solutions, such as vegetation, in our efforts to adapt to increasing rainfall.
2. We are reducing emissions and increasing carbon sinks
We are continuously reducing climate emissions – including those generated in construction. In addition to emission reductions, we aim to expand carbon sinks. Our objective is to have a net zero status in 2040, meaning that our emissions are equal to our carbon sinks.
3. We are increasing the wellbeing and equality of residents
We design, build and maintain a city that increases the wellbeing of its residents. We are developing the city so that residential areas do not become further segregated and all areas become more attractive. In our planning, we prepare for the risks of the changing climate and changes in conditions to safeguard wellbeing.
4. We promote sustainable transportation
We are planning and building a city where services are within walking distance and residents’ dependency on car transport is reduced. We prioritise walking, cycling and public transport.
5. We cherish valuable cultural environments and the special characteristics of Helsinki
We cherish our built heritage, archaeological cultural heritage and valuable landscapes. We pay particular attention to the special characteristics of Helsinki, such as its maritime environment, verdancy and distinctive city districts.
6. We operate resource-wisely and economically throughout the lifecycle
We are strengthening the urban economy by taking into account the direct and indirect impacts of projects throughout their lifecycle. We use resources with careful consideration to promote sustainable development, wellbeing and innovations. Smart use of resources applies to the whole lifecycle of the urban environment, from planning to construction and maintenance. We are steering our activities towards circular economy. At the same time, we are enabling residents and businesses to also use resources wisely.
Assessing the sustainability of operations
We assess our plans, construction projects and maintenance practices from the perspective of sustainability principles. These assessments support the realisation of sustainability in our planning and decision-making.