Map of Hinku network. © SYKE
The Towards Carbon Neutral Municipalities (Hinku) network brings together municipalities, businesses, citizens and experts to create and carry out solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The municipalities involved are committed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions more extensively and rapidly than EU targets require. The network aims to create solutions that have economic and social benefits as well as environmental advantages. Some Finnish regions are also involved in the Hinku network. The network is coordinated by the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE).
Emission reduction target: -80% CO2
The municipalities in the network are committed to an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from 2007 levels by 2030. When the network was launched in 2008, five municipalities were involved. There are already nearly 100 Hinku municipalities and five Hinku regions in the network, all committed to the same emission reduction target. A large group of Hinku companies and experts are also involved as partners.
Businesses, residents, municipalities and experts in cooperation
The municipal authorities work together with business representatives, local residents, research institutes and experts to devise and tailor new cost-effective solutions to reduce emissions, especially in the contexts of transportation, housing and energy. The network facilitates knowledge exchange especially regarding good practices in climate change mitigation, supports the municipalities in their climate action and creates demand for climate friendly products and services. Information about new tools and ideas are publicised in Finland and internationally.
New municipalities and regions as well as companies working in the field are welcome to join the network. Membership requires fulfilling the Hinku criteria.
Hinku network offers to its members:
- Support for municipalities’ climate work
- Sharing of best practices
- Support for planning of separate climate projects
- Emission calculation services and tools
- Communication cooperation and networking opportunities
- Support for preparing projects
- Visibility for partner companies’ products and services
Nominate a Hinku Award recipient
The Finnish Environment Institute awards emission reduction actions carried out in Hinku municipalities on a almost monthly basis. Tell us who you think should get a Hinku Award next!