Finland's Climate-Conscious Shoppers: More Than Half Cut Back on Spending

New surveys reveal that over half of consumers in Finland are reducing their purchases due to environmental concerns.

More than 2,000 individuals from various regions of the nation responded to a set of inquiries covering subjects such as biodiversity decline, emission reductions, and individual accountability. These 'Climate and Nature Barometers' for 2025 were conducted through collaboration between four governmental departments and numerous agencies and organizations.

The two surveys revealed that individuals in Finland possess a high level of awareness regarding climate change and biodiversity decline. Over 85 percent acknowledged witnessing the consequences of climate change, while an impressive 88 percent observed the repercussions of diminishing natural environments globally.

Biodiversity loss Specifically, based on the responses from 86 percent of those polled, these factors will influence areas like food production, public health, availability of supplies, and economic stability.

A majority of Finns reported having already felt the effects of climate change in their everyday routines, with 62 percent believing that these impacts have become noticeable recently. winters have been milder. Over half of the participants (55 percent) have noticed a decline in biodiversity within their nearby surroundings.

Finland residents reduce usage to address emissions.

In Finland, this emphasis on nature and climate change is evident in people's behavior. Approximately 40 percent of those surveyed mentioned that they have altered their way of life, which includes various changes. transport , housing and food options — to reduce their environmental impact.

Over half (53 percent) indicated they had cut down on their purchases - This represents a significant rise from the 43 percent observed only two years earlier in an earlier poll. Almost all participants (91 percent) concurred that items ought to be manufactured with durability in mind, despite this potentially leading to higher costs.

In Finland, opinions regarding dietary choices varied more widely among individuals. The nation has recently introduced new national nutrition guidelines, urging citizens to reduce their intake of meat. A significant majority (69 percent) agrees that a climate-friendly, predominantly plant-based diet ought to be priced cheaper compared to options with greater carbon footprints.

However, half of the participants disagreed with social initiatives aimed at encouraging a vegetarian lifestyle.

Whom do Finns think should be responsible for taking action?

Pristine nature is a crucial aspect of Finnish identity, as stated by 96 percent of those surveyed. However, opinions are split nearly evenly when it comes to whether this natural purity is sufficiently safeguarded.

Presently, public conversations in Finland are centered around achieving carbon neutrality target established under its Climate Act with an emphasis on enhancing forest carbon sinks.

Among the participants, 62 percent think that Finland ought to implement sufficient climate measures to attain carbon neutrality by 2035. Additionally, 75 percent of those surveyed argue that greater emphasis needs to be placed on forestry operations and management techniques to safeguard carbon reservoirs.

Moreover, an overwhelming majority of individuals (80 percent) think that businesses should be obligated to contribute to lowering emissions. Regarding nature conservation, fewer than half of the respondents, only 41 percent, feel that Finnish corporations and industries sufficiently consider biodiversity in their operations.