Energy & Climate

Investing in Sustainability = Economic Growth


One common misperception when it comes to investing in more sustainable solutions is that it will harm economic growth. Sweden has shown the opposite. As one of the world’s first countries to introduce a carbon tax, Sweden’s economy has doubled since 1990 while emissions have gone down 37%.

Sweden aims to become the first fossil-fuel-free O.E.C.D. country by 2045, and is working closely with various sectors of industry and society to realize that vision. Exceeding expectations, Sweden reached its 50% renewable-energy goal in 2012, well ahead of the 2020 target. Now, Sweden is aiming for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040.
Wind Turbines in SwedenWind Turbines in Sweden
Wind Turbines in Sweden
Photo: Per Pixel Petersson/imagebank.sweden.se

World-Class Framework for Green Collaboration

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Swedish industry is at the forefront of green transition, fueled by the widespread use of an energy mix almost free from fossil fuels—with nuclear energy, hydropower, and wind as important pillars. Collaborative partnerships are essential, exemplified by road maps for fossil-free competitiveness developed by 22 industries.

Policymakers have set a direction; companies and researchers are following it. Climate policy is now a cornerstone of business practice and scientific inquiry in Sweden. Industry clusters—organizations of overlapping sectors based on the Swedish ideal of “we’re better together”—further the effort.
Man recycling bottles in SwedenMan recycling bottles in Sweden
recycling bottles
Most Swedes separate all recyclable waste in their homes and deposit it at a recycling station. Waste management and recycling is a big part of the Swedish identity. It is common practice to separate household waste under the kitchen sink, and bring it to the municipal recycling stations where most household waste can be sorted and recycled. Trucks also patrol neighborhoods and act as mobile waste stations, in particular for dangerous and harmful waste.
Photo: Helena Wahlman/imagebank.sweden.se

A Circular Mindset, Weaved into All Parts of Society

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Sweden has adopted a national strategy for a circular economy that is smarter, better for the environment, and creates opportunities for new jobs, innovations, and sustainable businesses.

Swedish companies are actively embracing circular strategies, exceeding the E.U. average in resource-efficiency measures such as waste reduction, energy and water savings, and material conservation.

There is a notable level of awareness among the general public in Sweden regarding the importance of circular-economy principles. This heightened awareness drives significant demand for sustainable products and services, with practices such as recycling and can deposit systems (“Pant”) being widely embraced. This proactive approach and deep-rooted commitment to sustainability distinguish Sweden, making it a leader in promoting environmentally responsible behavior at the grassroots level.