How can Net Zero strengthen competitiveness?
How can Swedish industry accelerate the transition to net zero while strengthening its competitiveness? This was the central question when Net Zero Industry brought together representatives from industry and the business community during Almedalen Week.
The panel featured Pia Sandvik, CEO of the Association of Swedish Engineering Industries (Teknikföretagen), Elin Haapaniemi, Head of Sustainability at Siemens AB, and Henrik Tegnér, Head of Commercials, Communications & Sustainability at AFRY.
The discussion explored the links between net zero, competitiveness and resilience, and why the transition remains a strategic priority for Swedish industry.
-The reason Swedish industry is globally competitive today is that companies have been investing in the green transition and working towards net zero for a long time, said Pia Sandvik.
The panel also highlighted that companies investing in resource efficiency, fossil-free energy and innovative solutions are strengthening their ability to meet future challenges.
-The uncertainty in the world around us makes it even clearer that relying on fossil fuels is not a smart strategy. For Europe and the Nordic region, it is essential that we eliminate that dependency. To succeed, we must stay committed to our net-zero targets and accelerate the transition – for the climate, for competitiveness and for our resilience,” said Henrik Tegnér.
The seminar also highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in accelerating the transition.
-Innovation programmes such as Net Zero are essential if we are to deliver this kind of transformation. Individual companies can achieve a great deal on their own, but by working together we can accomplish far more and create wider impact. Innovation programmes build capability and drive change on a much broader scale than individual companies can achieve alone, said Pia Sandvik.
The discussion concluded with several recommendations for policymakers, including the need for long-term thinking, clear strategic direction and greater use of public procurement.
-We need to make greater use of public procurement in Sweden to stimulate certain markets and ensure that sustainable innovation, sustainable companies and sustainable products are rewarded, said Elin Haapaniemi.