Sustainable development means the opportunity for human development within the frameworks of the Earth’s carrying capacity. In addition to the environmental dimension, sustainable development also concerns social sustainability and economic sustainability. The 2030 Agenda is the UN’s action plan with goals for the transition to a sustainable society. These goals should steer the Nordic countries’ international activities.
The Nordic region has an ambition to become the most sustainable region in the world. We have the resources, expertise, and technology to show the way forward in the green transition in a sustainable way, with a realistic time frame and rational solutions. Together, on an international level, we will engage in dialogue about and promote the global level of ambition to stop climate change and the loss of biodiversity. As climate change accelerates, the social, economic, and environmental challenges are exacerbated. Climate change impacts food, water, and energy supplies, and contributes to greater competition for natural resources, loss of livelihoods, climate-related disasters, and enforced migration and displacement. The poorest people in the world are hit hardest, but the Nordic social welfare systems and economies are also affected by the crises.
The Nordic Council will therefore pursue the following objectives:
Work to ensure that the Nordic countries together take a proactive role in the UN to promote sustainable development and the goals in the 2030 Agenda.
That the Nordic countries strengthen collaboration on compliance with the Paris Agreement, the UN Agreement on Biodiversity, and the forthcoming UN agreement on plastic.
Work for a common Nordic voice on combatting global poverty and inequality by working more closely on development policy and aid – including support for rebuilding Ukraine.
That best practice from the Nordic region will benefit others, and that we have an active and investigative approach to learning from others.
That Nordic countries proactively promote the green transition in a sustainable way, and accelerate the development of clean and renewable energy, thereby helping to tackle climate change and improve security of supply.
To promote distinctive features of the Nordic region in the dialogue with other international actors, including the forest and marine industries, and work to combat antibiotic resistance.
Have a special focus on the Arctic area and help to spread awareness of the region’s vulnerability to climate change.
Hold close and constructive dialogue with the European Parliament about the EU's energy and climate policy, and demand concrete and sustainable solutions.