

A mystery in Finnish Lapland, and what it means for the climate crisis
36 snips Nov 25, 2024
Patrick Greenfield, a biodiversity and environment reporter at The Guardian, delves into the declining carbon sink of Finnish Lapland. He explores the beautiful yet threatened primeval forests, underscoring the impact of deforestation on both local communities and climate goals. The discussion highlights the Sami people's deep connection to the land, particularly through traditional reindeer herding. As rising temperatures threaten their identity and ecosystem, Greenfield advocates for urgent action to safeguard these crucial environments from the looming climate crisis.
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Trip to Finnish Lapland
- Patrick Greenfield traveled to Inari, Finland, and met with Tina Sinila-Aiko, former head of the Finnish Sami Parliament.
- Sinila-Aiko, dressed in traditional Sami clothing, shared stories and insights into the Sami culture and their deep connection with the land.
Disappearing Carbon Sinks
- Finland's forests, vital carbon sinks, are no longer effectively absorbing carbon.
- This jeopardizes the country's ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2035.
Understanding Carbon Sinks
- Carbon sinks, like forests and oceans, absorb more carbon than they release.
- Various natural processes contribute to carbon removal, including peatlands, salt marshes, and seaweed.