Last week, SVT Sápmi published the climate series Climate changes in Sápmi, where we heard about the climate year 2024 from different fields.
A majority of the interviewees had to answer two questions: how the year looked from their perspective and whether there was anything different from before. Now we have met with Climate and Environment Minister Romina Pourmokhtari (L) to take the temperature on climate policy.
“Been ups and downs”
– Some negotiations have gone well, not least in Sweden’s budget negotiation, but internationally we haven’t had the success we need, so there have been ups and downs.
The Government has been able to take part in parts of SVT’s climate series, where many bear witness to a year with unpredictable seasons and the consequences that entails. Pourmokthari believes that international disagreements stand in the way of the work.
– You become more motivated to work faster when you hear about consequences. It is a big challenge because many of the countries we are still discussing with do not want to phase out fossil fuels.
Wind and nuclear power in focus
The electrification of Sweden is of the highest priority according to the Ministry of Climate and Business. On December 13, an investigation was submitted to the government which proposes that the state should be able to identify suitable areas for offshore wind power – and then auction off exclusive rights to the wind power companies.
– In order for all those who are emitters today to dare to take the step to become electrically powered, our electricity system must work, so we will work hard to strengthen Sweden’s electricity system with more wind power and more nuclear power so that we can adapt, says Pourmokhtari.
Emissions increased in 2024
The government’s plan for the development of nuclear power was presented in autumn 2023 and involves, according to statement from Ebba Buschthat Sweden is laying the foundations for becoming a leading nuclear power nation – something that most experts have criticized. The government’s budget proposal for 2025 proposes large sums for the nuclear investment.
– The government has agreed on policies that, through the budget, reduce Sweden’s emissions and this is very important because the assessment is that emissions have increased by 2024, says Romina Pourmokhtari.