All council parties are represented in the Sustainable Espoo development programme

The City of Espoo is launching a cross-administrative programme for sustainable development to implement the Espoo Story. The Sustainable Espoo programme promotes carbon neutrality and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, increases the handprint of climate work, acts as a partner for the development of clean and smart urban solutions and strengthens the capacity of the Espoo community and residents to operate sustainably. The City Council will confirm the goals of the programme during autumn 2021.

The work of sustainable development requires systemic perseverance. The programme is the third in a row, the first being launched in 2013. Now the composition of the steering group is expanding compared to previous periods. The new control group includes representation from all City Council parties, and the first meeting was held on 21 September 2021. The City Council appointed Meri Löyttyniemi (Greens) as the chairperson of the control group and Markku Markkula (National Coalition Party) as the vice-chairperson.

“There are great starting points for continuing the sustainable development programme. The strong involvement of all council parties and city officials provides the conditions for implementing sustainability goals as part of all the city’s activities. The goals are ambitious and clear. The focus for the period 2021–2025 will be the implementation of solutions, effectiveness and partnerships. The creation of sustainable solutions will be made a visible and natural part of the everyday lives and activities of residents, city units, associations and companies”, says Meri Löyttyniemi, the new chairperson of the control group.

"It is easy to agree with Löyttyniemi’s views. Mayor Mäkelä emphasized to our council members the importance of the Espoo Story and cross-administrative development programmes: the programmes serve as a platform for cooperation and a catalyst for development. The programmes experiment with innovative solutions and increase effectiveness through partnership activities and network-like development. The desired results are achieved through open and genuine cooperation. Employees and elected officials in all areas of the city’s administration have an important role in developing and influencing. Espoo wants to be a pioneer in economically, ecologically, socially and culturally sustainable development", adds Markku Markkula, vice-chairperson of the control group.

The other members of the control group are Mikko Björklund (Movement Now), Adwoa Brewu (Christian Democrats), Martti Hellström (Social Democratic Party), Nina Siivola (Swedish People’s Party), Mervi Syväranta (Finns Party), Sofia Tuisku (Centre Party) and Kari Uotila (Left Alliance). In addition, the Mayor will nominate nine office-holders to the control group.