The introduction of an "Eco-Cities" index in this year Mercer survey shows the growing importance of environmental and energy qualities for a city at the international level. Helsinki (Finland) reached the third place with Ottawa (Canada), just behind Calgary (Canada) and Honolulu (United States) on the following criteria: accessibility and quality of water, waste removal, sewerage, air quality and transport congestion.
Helsinki is also working to anticipate environmental and energy challenges of the coming decades. The city has developed a "Climate Strategy" for 2030 with an overall target of 39% reduction of its greenhouse gas emissions (compared to 1990 levels). In parallel and in collaboration with the thirteen other municipalities of Greater Helsinki, the city has led an International Ideas Competition entitled "Greater Helsinki Vision 2050". The objective was to raise innovative ideas from professionals on a shared vision of the metropolis in 2050. The inhabitants of the metropolis have been involved in this process and could comment, together with elected representatives and other authority officers, on these long-term proposals for land use, housing or transportation.
Member of Energy Cities since 1996, Helsinki participates in many European projects and believes in the sharing of experiences betwieeen cities. Helsinki is Signatory of the Covenant of Mayors. The City is involved in the European Display® Campaign on the communication of public buildings’ energy performances. The City is also committed in the ENGAGE Project that enhances mobilization of local actors around the "3x20" European goals. On top of that Helsinki participates each year to the European Mobility Week. This third rank is then a fully deserved reward. Congratulations!
Further information: www.hel.fi
Louise Marzloff and Olivier Lagarde
Source: http://www.mercer.com/press-releases/quality-of-living-report-2010#Ranking_Eco_Cities
Photo: http://www.energy-cities.eu/IMG/pdf....
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