When discussing the greenhouse gas emissions of municipalities, the figures often refer to emissions that are calculated by using regional emission calculation models. These models mainly cover emissions generated within the municipality’s area, emissions from energy and waste management, as well as emissions from agriculture and production – regardless of where the products are actually consumed.
In contrast, consumption-based calculations take into account all emissions resulting from residents' consumption, regardless of where the consumed goods were produced. These calculation models are not alternatives but rather complement each other, together providing a broader understanding of the greenhouse gas emissions caused by both a municipality and its residents.
The carbon footprint of Helsinki residents has increased slightly when compared to previous calculations, but the differences are very small.
"The development of the calculation model provides more accurate information on the food consumption of Helsinki residents, among other things. It is interesting that the carbon footprint from food consumption in Helsinki is the lowest amongst all the participating cities," says Climate Director Hanna Wesslin from the City of Helsinki.
Helsinki is committed to contributing to the development of carbon footprint calculations and aims to reduce the carbon footprint of its residents. The calculation methods are still being refined and, for the time being, the results are somewhat low on detail. There are particular uncertainties regarding emissions from air and sea travel, renovation and repair construction, and the purchase of goods and services.
The consumption-based emissions of municipalities were calculated for the third time as part of the Kulma project, carried out by Sitowise and the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke). This year, 22 municipalities participated in the project In this project, the calculations were refined in relation to the private sector, i.e. household consumption, in particular. In addition, the emission factors for construction were updated to reflect the latest research data.
The results of the calculations reinforce the idea that the everyday choices of households and individuals are crucial for mitigating climate change. For example, doubling the lifespan of a single piece of clothing or home textile cuts its related greenhouse gas emissions in half. Similarly, shifting from a meat-heavy diet to one that is primarily based on fish can reduce food-related emissions by up to a third.
Why are consumption-based greenhouse gas emissions of municipalities monitored?
In 2024, the emissions of the municipalities participating in the Kulma project ranged from 7.1 to 9.9 tonnes. There is still a long way to go to reach a sustainable level – in line with the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement – which is 2.5 tonnes of CO₂e per person.
Municipalities have significant potential to influence the reduction of consumption-based greenhouse gas emissions. Municipalities can support their residents in climate-sustainable choices by investing in public transport and sustainable food choices in schools and daycare centers, offering low-emission district heating and raising awareness about the issue, for example.
A broad knowledge base on the greenhouse gas emissions generated by municipal and resident activities helps municipalities plan and target climate actions, as well as measure the impact of the measures taken.