Lifestyle

Sweden Shares Secrets to Kicking the Fossil Fuel Habit, Offering Vietnam a Path to Net-Zero Emissions

Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam, Johan Ndisi, has emphasized the impressive growth of his nation's gross domestic product (GDP), alongside a reduction in electric consumption. This sustainable development showcases Sweden's expertise in balancing economic growth with environmental protection. Ambassador Ndisi hopes that by sharing these achievements, Sweden can inspire and support Vietnam in its journey towards net-zero emissions.

Administrator

12 January, 2025

Sweden is leading the way in the global transition to carbon neutrality, with ambitious plans to eliminate the use of fossil fuels by 2045. This remarkable journey began decades ago and was fueled by a global oil crisis, which forced the country to rethink its energy strategy.

The 1970s oil crisis, a result of Sweden’s heavy reliance on oil, served as a pivotal moment. The shortage of oil and soaring prices led to the implementation of oil rationing, similar to food rations. This crisis threatened the economic gains of the previous ‘golden period’, prompting Swedish authorities to take decisive action.

A Transformative Oil Crisis

Sweden’s response to the crisis was twofold. Firstly, they turned to nuclear power to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels. Secondly, they invested significantly in central heating infrastructure, constructing large heating plants to supply heat to clusters of households and industrial parks through insulated piping and underground networks.

This shift came at a high cost, but the Swedish government remained committed to their new strategy. Their perseverance paid off, as today, an impressive 97% of Sweden’s heating energy originates from biofuels and waste-to-energy incineration.

Additionally, Sweden successfully decoupled economic growth from electricity consumption. As a result, between 1995 and 2019, Sweden’s GDP per capita increased by nearly 50% while electricity consumption per capita decreased year after year, thanks to efficient national electricity transmission systems.

A map of Stockholm, Sweden, indicating the locations of the main heat plants and the supermarkets they supply with heating energy. Source: Elsevier

Decarbonizing the Swedish Economy

Sweden has discovered a formula to grow its economy while protecting its climate and environment. The country is committed to becoming one of the first fossil fuel-free nations, and renewable energy is central to this transition.

In 2023, approximately 67.8% of Sweden’s electricity generation came from renewable sources, including wind, hydro, nuclear, and biomass, according to the International Energy Agency. This success is partly due to Sweden’s natural advantage, as the country is 70% forested.

However, the Swedish government has also played a crucial role in this transformation. They were one of the first countries to implement a carbon tax, which is now among the highest internationally. This tax incentivized people and businesses to shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, accelerating the expansion of offshore and onshore wind farms and innovative solar solutions.

As a result, Sweden’s CO2 emissions per capita are five times lower than the European average. Since 1990, they have reduced their net greenhouse gas emissions by 80%, compared to the European Union’s average of 30%.

Swedish children learn about waste sorting and recycling in Stockholm, the capital city. Photo: City of Stockholm

In addition to its energy sector transformation, Sweden has also prioritized waste management and recycling to maintain its environmental commitments. According to Ndisi, Sweden has not only encouraged recycling but also fostered a cultural norm of reducing waste and utilizing natural resources at all levels of society.

Sharing Knowledge and Experience with Vietnam

Sweden is eager to share its experience and technology with Vietnam to support the country in creating sustainable systems that benefit both the environment and economic growth. Events like the Green Economy Forum & Exhibition 2024 (GEFE) provide valuable platforms for businesses and citizens to exchange ideas, learn from each other, and inspire collective action.

The Swedish ambassador believes that Vietnam can achieve a high recycling rate by launching robust recycling initiatives, educational campaigns, and policies that encourage businesses to reduce waste. With Vietnam’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, the ambassador emphasizes the importance of transitioning to clean, low-carbon energy systems.

“It’s important not to feel discouraged during times of change,” Ndisi said, acknowledging the challenges Vietnam may face in its energy sector transformation. “Sweden has solutions to help overcome this situation.”