What does life in a climate neutral society look like?

The Nordic Council of Ministers is organizing a series of events across the Nordic region this year, together with various partners, where the goal is to shed light on future visions of a climate neutral society. At these events we bring together young activists, experts and decision-makers, to discuss what a good and environmentally friendly daily life could look like in the future – and how we can get there. These conversations have taken place at at Folkemødet in Denmark, Arendalsuka in Norway, Almedalsveckan in Sweden, and ReGeneration Week in Aaland Islands over the summer – and now as we close in on COP29 it is Iceland‘s turn.

The green transition is on everyone’s lips and few question its importance in a world characterized by the ever-worsening consequences of climate change. However, there seems to be little talk about what our societies and daily life can actually look like, once the green transition has been implemented and the changes necessary for societies to fit within the planetary boundaries have been undertaken. Instead, the discussion seems largely focused on what we lose on the road towards a more climate and environmentally friendly life; for example to fly less, reduce meat consumption or move to smaller housing. A lot of emphasis is also placed on whether and how technological solutions can prevent the need for such lifestyle changes and personal sacrifices – although it is clear that technological solutions alone will not solve the climate- and biodiversity crises.

Research has  shown that it is difficult to drive social change in the absence of a clear vision for the future. In light of this, the report “Nordic Visions of Climate Neutrality” was published by the Nordic Council of Ministers last year. It explores how daily life could look like in 25 years, and sheds light on the positive side-effects that the green transition could bring about in the future; such as increased human health and well-being, more free time, better connection to nature, vibrant local communities and stronger democracies. Could it be that life will be even better? This of course depends on the values that guide a society, and how we define „the good life“.

Program:

Presentation of the report “Nordic Visions of Climate Neutrality” – Brynhildur Davíðsdóttir, professor of environment and natural resources at HÍ, Eyjólfur Ingi Ásgeirsson, professor at the Faculty of Engineering HR, and Hlynur Stefánsson, professor at the Faculty of Engineering HR.

Panel discussion:

– Guðlaugur Þór Þórðarson, Minister of Environment, Energy and Climate

– Sóllilja Bjarnadóttir, doctoral student at the Faculty of Sociology, Anthropology and Ethnology of HÍ

– Sigríður Ingibjörg Ingadóttir, economist at BSRB

– Finnur Ricart Andrason, president of the Icelandic Youth Environmentalists Association

Moderator: Katrín Oddsdóttir

The event takes place in Icelandic. Light refreshments will be served after the seminar.

Read the report „Nordic Visions of Climate Neutrality hér.

Access for wheelchairs in Elissa is good, there is a small threshold into the auditorium. Accessible and gender neutral restrooms are on the same floor. The event takes place in Icelandic.