How the residents of Helsinki started to Think Sustainably

How about ditching all the popular review apps when looking for your next dinner reservation? Then Think Sustainably!

Well, in Finland’s capital city, Helsinki, this is possible. And in fact, it is not only possible but also popular and trendy. The residents of the city feel worried about the ecological crisis (as per Greta Thunberg). And they want to do something about it.

You see, every expert points out that doing something to save the planet requires not only broad initiatives but also small everyday deeds. Like for example picking the best restaurant to eat or the grocery store from which you can buy your weekly stuff. Even going to a festival or attend an event. Everything has an environmental impact. Even the smallest thing.

The City of Helsinki incorporated all this into a new app to help citizens make the right (environmentally) decisions for their everyday life.

Read on to find out what is the Think Sustainably app, how it works and what you can do yourself to save the planet, like the Helsinkers!

Helsinki is cool!

Literally and metaphorically. One of the coldest capital cities in the world. But also one of the greenest ones, um, let’s say the most environmentally friendly. Active too! The goal is clear: the City of Helsinki has committed to reducing its emissions by 60% by 2030 and be carbon-neutral by 2035. Hats off!

Wait! How will this happen? Easy peasy? No way. But small deeds by the city’s residents can really bring a big change. This is why they created the Think Sustainably app.

 

How does Think Sustainably work?

You open the app and right in front of your eyes pop up tens of local businesses that -one way or another- act towards becoming more sustainable. There are many business categories: from restaurants, cafes and bars to attractions, events and venues. And from shops to hotels.

Everyone is included. Businesses of any size are encouraged to report their planet-friendly actions and be listed in the app. Nordic equality rules! Small or big, every business must have the same opportunities to make their impact on the environment.

Can self-reporting work?

According to the city officials, YES! You see, there is no official audit to determine that the criteria are passed by a participating business. Their owners and management voluntarily report their green actions.

This system works. Nordic trust again! In fact, officials say that in most cases the businesses rather underestimate their actions than overestimate them to look green!

To the point now, for each category, there is a specific list of criteria to be considered. To qualify as an eligible business to be listed, you have to pass a certain number of them, depending on the category. Read on to find out what these criteria and how you can use them yourself at the place you live, to make more environmentally responsible decisions.

Checklist time!

Next time you pick a restaurant, cafe or bar, make sure you know what is on their plates. The more vegetarian and local the products used are, the better. Also, take their food waste management actions into consideration.

For events, venues and accommodation, the most important factor is the buildings’ energy consumption. and recycling schemes Also, take a look at how they manage the food (as above) and if you can get there by using green transportation means (like public transport).

What about shops? The more they promote the circular economy principles the greener they are. You know, the fast, ever-consuming and waste culture is not green at all. Sustainability matters!

So, what is YOUR pick among these environmentally friendly alternatives? Would you sacrifice something to help save the planet? Join the online conversation!

Image: Katja Lösönen / Photo agency Keksi