6 News
Between hand-outs and stand-outs: The dynamics between rural actors and national goals in Nordic green transitions
Renewable energy projects, with their considerable demand on land use, are rapidly changing the Nordic rural landscapes. At the same time, many people living in the impact area of new instalments feel that national green transition policies put a disproportionately heavy toll on rural people. The resulting sense of powerlessness leads to a heavy resistance that is difficult to solve when a project is already underway. How can we ensure that national and local policymakers recognise the potency of rural actors and engage them in a meaningful manner? How could they create policies that help harness the potential of green transitions instead of dumping them on rural areas in a top-down manner? Welcome to our webinar and discussion on 11 December at 14-15.30 CET! This event presents the policy recommendations drawn from the report Can local value creation induce a sense of justice during green transitions? and discusses them in the context of examples from other Nordic regions. The discussion will focus on concrete steps that both rural actors and national and regional policymakers can take to ensure a more just energy transition in the future. We will tap into the viewpoints of both research and local action groups. Sign up here: Programme Discussants: Panel discussion: We welcome the audience to participate with their questions to the panel! The research project A Just Green Transition in rural areas: local benefits from value creation has analysed the possible benefits and barriers in the context of six case studies in rural regions in Denmark, Finland, and Norway. The project is part of the Nordic Council of Ministers’s Thematic Group for Green and Inclusive Rural Development in the Nordics.
11 December 2023
- Webinar
ARENA: What is the role of the regional authority in tackling grand societal challenges?
ARENA is a space designed to be a hub for knowledge exchange on green, innovative, and resilient regions among key experts in the various fields of research, policy, and practice in the Nordic countries and beyond. This session aims at sparking a debate on what the role of the regional authority is, or should be, in spearheading major transformations. In recent years, the ‘mission-oriented policy approach’ has gained significant attention in political and academic discourse. This new policy approach means pulling resources and science together in a new way to address some of today’s grand societal challenges and to promote transformative change. However, this has sparked a debate about the risks connected to directionality. This is particularly clear in innovation policy, whether such directionality is narrowing the scope of innovation, and whether it introduces place-blind, top-down approaches. To disentangle this debate, speakers will be invited to, first, take a step back and guide us through the functions that regional authorities play in national government systems before delving into what arguably is the emerging position of regions as ‘drivers of change’. Afterwards, there will be a panel discussion and an opportunity for the audience to participate. Speakers: Moderator: We welcome the audience to participate in the discussion with their questions and comments to the panel!
14 November 2023
- Webinar
Fiscal stabilizers in Nordic countries: Nordic Economic Policy Review Conference
The ongoing 21st century has brought with it a series of big global shocks the management of which has posed severe policy challenges, not least for fiscal stabilization and stability of public finances. Nordic countries are no exception to the rule. Have conventional fiscal stabilizers, most notably fiscal multipliers and automatic stabilizers remained stable over time and in the face of these shocks? Furthermore, since macroeconomic uncertainty has arguably increased due to the series of big shocks alluded to above, can we observe new features in the interplay between discretionary fiscal policy decisions and fiscal multipliers and automatic stabilizers? These are some of the issues that will be presented and discussed during this peer-review conference of the upcoming Nordic Economic Policy Review. The conference will take place in Reykjavik and online on the 8th of November. The seminar will address questions like: We invite you to a full day with presentations of recent research by leading Nordic experts, comments by academics and policymakers, and policy discussions. We offer coffee and a light lunch for all onsite participants. Agenda November 8, 2023 8:30 – 9:00: Coffee and registration 9:00 – 9:05: Welcome remarks 9:05 – 10:15: Fiscal stabilizers in Iceland Presentation by Arnaldur Sölvi Kristjánsson, University of Iceland Discussants: Gunnar Haraldsson, Icelandic Fiscal Council Katrín Ólafsdóttir, Reykjavik University 10:15 – 10:30: Coffee break 10:30 – 11:45: Fiscal stabilizers in Denmark …
08 November 2023
- Conferences
Climate Action & Economic Well-being – is there a trade-off?
First report in the project: Ensuring inclusive economic growth in the transition to a green economy (EnIGG) Ever wondered how climate policies might impact your cost of living? Watch the recorded webinar, our watch it via our YouTube channel. In this webinar, we presented our recently launched report: “What impact do climate change policies have on Nordic economies, industries, and households?” Guided by our moderator Kirsi Heikel, Senior Advisor at Miltton, we are shedding light on the intricate interplay between climate mitigation efforts and the everyday costs of living in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. Whether you’re a climate activist, a policymaker, or just curious about the future, this event will reveal the newest insights on how climate policies impact all of us economically. Presentations by: Panelists:
24 October 2023
- Webinar
CITY TALKS 1-2-3: Espoo, Täby, and Stavanger share experiences on green urban planning
Did you miss our latest and final webinar in the series? Watch our recording of it above. NORDGREEN – Smart Planning for Healthy and Green Nordic Cities project invites Nordic city planners and developers, architects, healthcare sector representatives and governance enthusiasts to join Friday morning webinar series CITY TALK 1-2-3 where four cities share learning on: CITY TALKS 1-2-3 CITY TALK 1: Engaging youth in planning – Espoo broke all records with an online tool10 February 2023, 9.00-10.00 CET (+1h in FI)Aalto University, City of Espoo, Nordregio This webinar shares how the city of Espoo gathered over 6,000 respondents of which over 2,000 were children and youth. This led to over 70,000 map markings via PPGIS surveys making this the largest citizen survey ever made in Finland. How did Espoo manage to work with schools and activate the youth? In this webinar, Espoo shares its success factors, which lie mainly in the process and smart collaboration. CITY TALK 2: How to use and connect green space and health indicators in city planning28 April 2023, 9.00-10.00 CET (+1h in FI)Norwegian University of Life Sciences NMBU, City of Täby, Nordregio Local authorities need knowledge, tools, and indicators in order to develop and manage green spaces in a way that can effectively promote health and well-being for the urban dweller. During this city talk, the researchers and planners share their experiences and discuss the use and applicability of objective and perceived green space and health indicators for planning purposes. CITY TALK 3: How can green space improve health? Stavanger explores new design methods22 September 2023, 9.00-10.00 CET (+1h FI)Nordregio, the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences SLU, The City of Stavanger In this webinar, researchers present evidence and evidence-based models for green space design – What kind of health-promoting aspects does green space planning…
22 September 2023
- Webinar
5G Matchmaking Event: 5G in Media and Broadcasting
Our fourth 5G matchmaking event will take place on the 20th of September, from 14-15.30 CET. The spotlight will be on media and broadcasting. Join us for an exciting event where we delve into the game-changing potential of 5G technology in the media and broadcast industry. 5G opens up a world of possibilities for content creators and broadcasters, offering faster, more immersive, and more personalised experiences to viewers. Our speakers: Join us on September 20th to gain valuable insights from industry experts, network with like-minded professionals, and showcase your own specific 5G matchmaking needs! After the keynote speeches, we will move on to breakout rooms and discuss:
20 September 2023
- Webinar
Webinars on the Future of Urban Agriculture
Join this webinar series that will explore the multifaceted realm of urban agriculture. Delve into the intersections of innovation and legislation, culture, and education and science, and discover how they collectively shape the future of urban farming. Whether you are an urban agriculture enthusiast, policy-maker, community leader, educator, or simply curious about the future of our cities, these webinars offer a unique opportunity to gain insights, share experiences, and contribute to the ongoing transformation of urban agriculture. We look forward to your presence at these enlightening events as we collectively cultivate a sustainable and vibrant urban future. Webinar 1: “Cultivating Change: The Future of Urban Agriculture in the Nexus of Innovation and Legislation” When: Jun 8, 2023 11:00 AM Riga/Helsinki Register in advance for this webinar: https://ej.uz/f3bu In this webinar, we will unravel the transformative power of innovation and legislation in urban agriculture. Explore cutting-edge technologies, practices, and policies that are revolutionizing urban farming. Gain insights into how innovation maximizes food production, enhances sustainability, and ensures resilience. Discover the crucial role of legislation in creating an enabling environment for urban agriculture to flourish. Join us to be part of the conversation shaping the future of our cities through urban farming. Webinar 2: “Cultivating Community: The Future of Urban Agriculture in Connection with Culture” When: Jun 8, 2023 02:00 PM Riga/Helsinki Register in advance for this webinar: https://ej.uz/c52y Join us for an inspiring webinar that explores the profound relationship between urban agriculture, culture, and community-building. Discover how urban agriculture can strengthen community ties, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster social cohesion. Learn about the transformative power of community gardens, rooftop farms, and urban farming projects in promoting healthy lifestyles, preserving cultural heritage, and connecting people with nature. Be part of this conversation as we cultivate vibrant communities through the lens of culture and urban…
08 - 09 June 2023
- Webinar
EU versus National Climate Policies in the Nordics
In 2021, the EU decided to set more ambitious targets for the abatement of greenhouse gas emissions, including a 55% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 and achieving climate neutrality by 2050. This issue of Nordic Economic Policy Review explores the implications of this new Fit for 55 package for the Nordic countries.
08 May 2023
- Launch of the publication
Agenda 2030: Empowering youth for more sustainable communities
Youth engagement has become a priority issue for local decision-makers who strive to create more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant communities, in line with the global Agenda 2030. But how can municipalities reach and engage youth? How can youth have real influence over decisions that concern them? How do you set expectations right and follow up in an inclusive way? Many Nordic municipalities have developed practical tools, event formats, and processes that ensure systematic engagement and follow-up. Learn more about these examples, and ask your questions during the webinar with the following featured municipalities and NGO’s: The event is part of Nordregio’s peer-to-peer learning project to support the implementation of Agenda 2030 at the local level across the Nordics. The project is financed by the Nordic Council of Ministers.
26 April 2023
- Webinar
Nordregio at Ungdommens Folkemøde NORD
Nordregio and the Youth for Sustainable Living project will be present during Ungdommens Folkemøde NORD in Copenhagen on 21-22 April. Through funding from Sustainable Living, four youth organisations will participate and promote different aspects of sustainability during the event. ReGeneration 2030 You have the power to fight for a better future! We need collective youth power for system change, and ReGeneration 2030 will help you to find a role in the sustainability movement that suits you. Learn more about tangible actions and find out more about different youth sustainability organisations in different regions, and participate in creating an interactive artwork piece in the container to demonstrate your commitment to fighting climate change collectively. Visit their container: Friday at 14-19 and Saturday at 13-19, Sustainability & Future theme area. Listen to their talk: Friday, April 21, at 17-17.30, Sustainability & Future stage. ReGeneration 2030 is a youth movement for sustainability in the Nordic and Baltic Sea region, bringing activists aged 15-30 from across the region together to share knowledge and strategize. ReGeneration 2030 is on a mission to fight climate collapse and build a sustainable future for all. Tænketanken Frej Can we on the one hand be climate heroes who lead the way and on the other hand, be some of those who burden the planet the most? Tænketanken Frej focuses on food consumption and changes in food culture among young people. Is it really up to the individual to make a difference, or is it up to the system and political regulation to change the world? The panel debate on the stage engages several representatives and involves the audience. In their container, you can pop by for legume bingo, taste plant-based drink options and get to know more about their climate footprint. Visit their container: Friday at 14-19 and Saturday…
21 - 22 April 2023
- Conferences
- Other
Nordic workshop: Behaviour change for sustainable food consumption
What can be done to shift Nordic diets to become healthier and more sustainable? What policies can enable behaviour change among Nordic citizens to adopt better diets? Join us in this Nordic workshop for discussions and insights about measures that can facilitate change in people’s behaviour, as well as structural factors affecting the implementation of sustainable and healthy dietary guidelines. The purpose of this workshop is to provide insights on and discuss measures that can stimulate behavioral change among consumers when it comes to food choices and dietary habits, as well as contribute to implementation of the upcoming Nordic Nutrition Recommendations (NNR2022). Registration is now open. When registering, please indicate whether you will attend physically in Stockholm or online. Register here!
29 March 2023
- Workshop
Policy workshop: Integrating Climate into Macroeconomic Modelling
How to use models to make informed policy decisions: Tracking progress towards Fit for 55 and REPowerEU The goal of the workshop series is to facilitate exchange on the current challenges in relation to the use of modelling tools in each stage of the policy cycle, design, planning and evaluation. This second policy workshop focuses on the monitoring interface from the perspective of policy makers and modellers. It discusses how such interface could be improved in the future. Using the new EU Energy Directive as a framing policy, the examples presented and discussed in the workshop will illustrate how counterfactual analyses can support decision making processes on energy taxation and subsidies. The presentations will also shed light on the challenges of multilevel governance structures involving local, national and EU levels, often with disconnected goals and challenges. The framing policy questions are as follows: How to use models to make informed policy decisions (decide on what to do and how to do it at various levels)? How to use models to evaluate policy decisions (monitoring and evaluation)? Agenda 13:00 Welcoming words from the Integrating Climate into Macroeconomic Modelling (ICMM) Project 13:05 Using models to make informed policy decisions: Overarching comments drawing on Finland’s national climate policy Magnus Cederlöf (Senior advisor at the Ministry of Environment in Finland; member of the Nordic Working Group on Environment and Economy) 13:20 Trade-off between assessing policy compliance vs providing insights to policy makers: Case study1: Saving energy or saving effort? Decomposing effect of an energy savings policy Case study 2: How time affects the quality of new model results and the value of new model results to policy makers differently Kristoffer Steen Andersen (Danish Energy Agency) 13:50 Short break 13:55 Open Debate 14:25 Wrapping up and practical information 14:30 Meet the expert session …
27 March 2023
- Webinar