Lessons from Finland in Innovation and Sustainable Forestry
Finland, a country at the pinnacle of global technological progress and innovation, is leading in several areas of excellence that are the pillars of its economy.
With a focus on information and technology, forestry and the forestry industry, aquaculture, as well as a progressive carbon tax policy, Finland continues to strengthen its position as a pioneer in various aspects of sustainable development.
Finland has become a champion in the global technology realm. Based on the Technology Achievement Index (TAI), Finland holds first place in the world as the country with the most advanced technology.
This index reflects various factors, including internet penetration, the ability to use technology in a network economy, and the technological skill levels of people of different ages. Finland’s excellence in this area provides a solid foundation for ever-growing innovation and digital transformation.
Furthermore, Finland’s forestry sector and forestry industry are examples of successful economic transformation. Despite its transformation from a traditional agricultural/forest economy to a modern, diversified industry, paper products remain Finland’s third largest export.
This shows that Finland maintains its competitive advantage in the forestry industry while developing other sectors of its economy.
Aquaculture has also been a focus of attention for Finland, despite facing challenges in recent decades. Although the number of fish farming businesses has declined since the 1980s, the Finnish government is committed to rebuilding the sector.
By completing the blue bioeconomy development plan in 2016, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry set the foundation for future recovery and growth of the aquaculture sector.
Finally, Finland is a model in implementing a progressive carbon tax policy. As the first country in the world to implement a carbon tax in 1990, Finland has demonstrated its strong commitment to climate change mitigation.
With a carbon tax rate in 2023 reaching EU76.92 per metric ton of CO2 emissions, Finland occupies a leading position among European countries in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Overall, Finland’s areas of excellence demonstrate a strong commitment to innovation, sustainable development and climate change mitigation. The policies and practices that have been implemented by Finland can be a model for other countries, including Indonesia.
Source: Bappenas
