Resident survey supports Hämeenlinna’s climate and sustainability work
A resident survey supporting the preparation of Hämeenlinna’s climate programme shows that residents consider climate and sustainability work important and hope for concrete actions from the city. The survey results will be used to finalise the climate programme and select future measures.
Hämeenlinna is currently preparing a new climate programme aimed at promoting carbon neutrality, preparing for the impacts of climate change, and strengthening the circular economy and sustainable consumption. The programme updates the Carbon Neutral Hämeenlinna programme established in 2020, which aims for a carbon-neutral Hämeenlinna by 2035.
A total of 313 people responded to the resident survey conducted between April and June 2026 to support the preparation of the programme. The survey mapped views on climate and sustainability work, sustainable everyday choices, desired actions from the city, and adaptation to climate change.
Based on the results, residents of Hämeenlinna are generally positive about climate and sustainability work. The majority of respondents estimated that they are familiar with the principles of climate change mitigation. Most considered it important to reduce emissions, strengthen carbon sinks, and pursue long-term zero emissions. More than half of the respondents felt that climate work should be carried out even when it incurs costs.
Among the residents’ own sustainable everyday actions, the most common were waste sorting, walking and cycling for short distances, and lowering the indoor temperature at home. Less frequently implemented measures included low-carbon driving, the use of public transport, and a vegetarian diet.
205 people responded to the open-ended question regarding the city’s most important climate or sustainability action. The responses highlighted the protection of green areas, forests, and nature, the promotion of sustainable mobility, as well as communication and resident involvement. The responses also reflected differing views on climate change. The proportions of those very concerned about climate change and those critical of climate work were each approximately 10–15 per cent of those who answered the open-ended question.
The aim of the survey was to ensure that residents’ views are taken into account in the preparation of the climate programme. The results will be used in the assessment of the programme’s impacts and in finalising the priorities and selections of measures for the programme period. In particular, themes raised by residents, such as safeguarding biodiversity, sustainable mobility solutions, and the development of interaction, will be considered in further preparation.
The preparation of the climate programme is in its final stages. During August, the city’s internal preparatory work and the measures to be selected for the programme period will be finalised. The climate programme and the supplementary action plan are intended to be submitted to the City Council for consideration in December 2026.