Goal 1: The Nordic-Baltic region is a front runner in realising the digital and green transition
The increased use of data and new technologies is fundamental to harness the potential of digitalisation while promoting the green transition. Knowledge and awareness regarding both green and digital technology is a competitive advantage for the region, providing tools for a high level of ambition in promoting and accelerating the digital green transition in the EU and beyond, taking the lead in aligning the twin green and digital transitions.
However, while recognising that the two transitions are closely linked, more efforts are needed to use data and digital solutions to address sustainability challenges and reduce the climate and environmental footprint of the Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) themselves. For the digital transition to become a true driver in realising the green transition we need to address the energy consumption, emissions, and e-waste also from digital solutions.
Subgoal 1.1: Strengthened competences, knowledge, and research on how digitalisation, data utilisation, and data-sharing can accelerate the green transition
Collaboration on data sharing, application of digital tools and utilisation of new technologies may be addressed in collaboration with other ministerial councils (for example the Ministerial Council for Growth or Environment and Climate), and may include contributions to the digital twin technology and pilots showcasing tools based on harmonized, interoperable, and shared data promoting Data-Driven Decision Making: Leveraging FAIR principles, helping stakeholders to make informed decisions, setting a new standard for data-driven governance of common resources.
Subgoal 1.2: Digital solutions will have positive effects on the environment
Cooperation on “greening ICT” could involve sharing best practices and national experiences, cooperate on standards and harmonisation in addressing the energy consumption, emissions, and e-waste from digital solutions. Sharing expertise, conducting joint research projects, and cooperating in implementing and assessing the impact of innovative technologies that optimise processes, reduce environmental impact, and enhance overall sustainability across the Nordic and Baltic region.