The Ministry of Climate has initiated a study to help simplify environmental impact assessments. The goal of the study is to identify activities that significantly affect the climate.
The Ministry states that the study's results will help better assess the impact of economic activities on achieving climate goals. "We want to find a balance between environmental protection and reducing bureaucracy for companies," said Kristi Klaas, Deputy Chancellor for Green Reform.
Defining significant climate impact will help speed up the issuance of environmental permits. It will also ensure progress towards climate neutrality. The study will analyze various sectors and create a method for assessing significant impact.
Climate policy is moving in a direction where environmental protection and economic goals are more closely linked. "Lower environmental impact is a competitive advantage, and we want to take this into account when processing permits," said Klaas.
The study will analyze greenhouse gas emissions in various sectors. A proposal will also be made to establish a threshold for significant climate impact. The Stockholm Environment Institute's Tallinn Centre is leading the analysis.
The study's results will be discussed with various stakeholders, including representatives of companies and industry associations. Amendments to legislation are planned for the coming years.