Carbon Neutral Municipalities (Hinku)

Basic project information

Start year 2008

Stage Ongoing

Person in charge Jyri Seppälä

Other persons Jyrki Tenhunen, Teemu Ulvi, Laura Saikku, Jarmo Linjama, Hannele Ahponen, Ulla Ala-Ketola, Santtu Karhinen, Karoliina Auvinen,Teemu Helonheimo, Venla Riekkinen, Roosa Komokallio

Financiers The Ministry of the Environment, The Ministry of Employment and Economy, Business Finland, Sitra, EU and companies

Partners Association of Local and Regional Authorities, Motiva Ltd, Sitra, Tekes, The Ministry of Agruculture and Forestry, The Ministry of the Environment, The Ministry of Employment and the Economy and other partners

Municipalities as pioneers in climate change mitigation

The Carbon Neutral Municipalities project (Hinku project) brings municipalities, businesses, citizens and experts together to create and carry out solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The municipalities involved are committed to a target of 80% emission reductions by 2030 from 2007 levels.

Energy efficiency, renewable energy and local welfare

Emissions are reduced especially by improved energy efficiency and increased use of renewable energy sources. In addition to the emissions from municipal operations, the municipal decision makers can have an influence on local emissions e.g. from land use, energy production and transport. Local businesses and residents are invited to participate in the climate actions. The aim is to strengthen the local community and increase wellbeing through e.g. cost reductions, energy self-sufficiency and new business opportunities.

Spreading best practices

Information about the best practices in climate change mitigation is spread nationally and internationally. The Hinku project has gained a lot of media publicity. Other communicational means such as online communication, events and a newsletter are also used. The wide partner group is valuable in distributing information.

Hinku Network

The Hinku network supports municipalities in their activities. A new online platform brings together Hinku municipalities, businesses offering climate-friendly products and services, as well as experts in the fields of climate and energy. The network offers its members networking possibilities, tools and support in emission reduction activities as well as emissions inventories and calculation, communicational cooperation and more. Municipalities that meet the so-called Hinku criteria are welcome to join the Hinku network.