Scientists and decision-makers to discuss Estonia's readiness for climate change

TALLINN - A climate seminar is being held on Tuesday in Tallinn, both at the Tamme hall of the joint ministry building and online, bringing together decision-makers, scientists, and practitioners to discuss Estonia's next steps in climate adaptation.

"In Europe, climate change already affects most areas of life in one way or another - from forests and agriculture to urban planning and residential and infrastructure construction. Therefore, we have long since stopped treating climate change adaptation as a narrow issue for one sector or a single institution. To find workable solutions, cross-sectoral cooperation and the sharing of knowledge and experience between the state, local governments, scientists, and entrepreneurs are essential," said Marten Kokk, Secretary General of the Ministry of Climate.

"The climate seminar provides a good opportunity to discuss how to make Estonia more resilient to changing climate conditions in the future and reduce the long-term risks associated with climate change," Kokk added.

The seminar will address how Estonia's climate is actually changing, how other countries are preparing for climate change, what steps have already been taken at the national level in Estonia, and what practical adaptation solutions exist in forestry, water management, agriculture, and the health sector.

The event will conclude with a panel discussion titled "Who is responsible for your life, home, and property?", which will explore the impacts, risks, and division of responsibility for climate change in society.

Throughout the day, experts from the Environmental Agency, the Ministry of Climate, the Rescue Board, the Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tallinn University, the Health Board, the Estonian Museum of Natural History, Swedbank, and several other organizations will present. Norwegian climate adaptation expert Irene Brox Nilsen will share international experience.

The event is primarily aimed at local governments, educational and research institutions, policymakers, planners, professional associations, and more broadly, all those whose work, decisions, or daily activities affect the shaping of the living environment.

The seminar is organized with the support of the European Union's Cohesion Policy Fund project for 2021-2027, "Raising Awareness and Consideration of Climate Change," and the LIFE program project, "Implementing Climate Change Adaptation Measures in Estonia."