The new society grows within the old framework

The human footprint on our planet has been destructive and tainted by the greed for oil. The global eco-crisis, growth of extreme weather events, and decrease of natural resources make it difficult to predict the future. At the moment, it is still difficult to foresee all the impacts that climate change will have on the Finland of the future.

One in nine of our species is endangered. At the same time, our dinner tables are starting to look less diverse: instead of various Finnish vegetables, our plates are increasingly filled with industrially processed corn, rice and wheat imported from abroad. The traditional Finnish sources of livelihood are under threat, both in the southern fields and in the northern fjelds. Due to drought and rising temperatures, the indigenous plants no longer thrive in these areas.

Climate change is also a threat to our labour market which already struggles with a shortage of employees. It also poses a threat to mental health and exposes us to social and economic disruption caused by extreme weather and natural disasters. Climate anxiety has become one of the most talked about mental health issues today. Only by taking action and achieving goals to tackle the climate crisis will we tackle the root causes of climate anxiety.

''A politician must be able to dream''

We have no choice but to reduce consumption and adapt to environmental changes. Rapid changes in Finnish consumption habits are necessary but not necessarily comfortable. To achieve climate targets, we need legislation that encourages biodiversity, climate objectives and reduced consumption. A just transition is key to creating an equal and sustainable Finland. It will make sustainable consumption possible for all, regardless of income level. As electricity and food prices rise, the livelihoods of the poor in particular will deteriorate. This is precisely why they need to be considered the most in times of economic and social crisis.

Politicians must be able to act between the reality of the present and a stronger vision of the future. Politicians must be able to dream and build better realities. Without a vision of the future, there is no possibility to develop our society. Without hard work and inventive dreams, we are unable to dismantle society's old frameworks.

Fortunately, new ideas are already sprouting. Climate targets are being taken seriously at almost all levels of society, social sustainability has been tackled in a variety of ways during the current government, and significant changes have been made to the structure of the state economy. It would be absurd to suspend these long-term work efforts and  reverse the impactful work already being done. I want to continue the excellent work of the Left Alliance at the Parliament through my three different election themes: