in content lists or on the content page.Media release 5 June 2006
Prospects for the environmental field were discussed at Cleantech Forum Lahti, a first-time event in Finland that gathered nearly a hundred companies and investors to sunny Lahti.
The two-day event gives a thorough overview of the current development of the environmental industry both from companies’ and investors’ perspectives.
“The idea is to offer insight into the funding of companies commercialising clean technologies, as well as market trends, to anticipate future technologies and present the views of the investors,” says Jukka Noponen, Executive Director of Sitra’s Environmental Programme.
The environmental sector is still fragmented in Finland. There are only a few spearheading enterprises and many small companies in the sector. The number of new businesses in the field has decreased over the past few years. Finland’s strong reputation as an environmental expert has yet to be reflected in growth of exports to international markets.
Cleantech provides access to global markets
Although the growth of environmental exports in Finland has been slower than the market development would suggest, there are high global expectations for the field.
The opening address was given by Sauli Niinistö, Vice-President of the European Investment Bank, who views cleantech as a key industry when striving towards security and well-being. More innovation, less material, is what the new millennium demands.
“Europe is very progressive in its environmental views, and could have a similar role in producing cleantech. The political debate has taken a turn for the positive, which has created a window of opportunity. Last year, the European Investment Bank invested €550 million in renewable energy and continues to endorse the operations of the emissions market,” said Niinistö.
Nicholas Parker, the American environmental investment expert, also has strong faith in clean technologies.
“Cleantech is rapidly emerging as a viable investment category, now accounting for as much as 9% of North American venture dollars. The Nordic region, with its strong commitment to sustainability and advanced technology, has the potential to be a global leader in what is the next and necessary wave of innovation.”
Parker, who will speak at the forum on Tuesday, is the co-founder of the American Cleantech Venture Network LLC and one of the most brilliant representatives of the field. His organisation follows up the global development of investments made in cleantech and produces related information for investors interested in the field.
The event is organised by Lahti Science and Business Park Ltd, Sitra, Cleantech Venture Network LLC and Cleantech Invest.
Further information
Jukka Noponen, Executive Director, Sitra
Tel. 040 587 4323
Mika Sulkinoja, Project Manager, Lahti Science and Business Park Ltd
Tel. 050 357 1723
Communications: Laura Niemi, Communications Manager, Sitra
Tel. 050 373 8602
www.cleantechforumlahti.com »
Sitra’s Environmental Programme »