Ilmastusrako

Ilmastusrako is a term used in Finnish climate discourse to describe the gap between the emissions reductions required to meet international climate targets and the actions that are actually taken or planned. The concept can be used in several contexts: a policy gap (the difference between pledged or proposed measures and what is needed), a technology and investment gap (insufficient deployment of low-carbon technologies and finance), and a knowledge or communication gap (how well the public and decision-makers understand and respond to climate risks). In many analyses, ilmastusrako is closely related to the emissions gap or mitigation gap used in global assessments.

Measurement and interpretation: Researchers estimate the gap by comparing projected emissions under current policies with emissions consistent with limiting warming to well below 2 C and pursuing 1.5 C, according to climate models and carbon budgets. Emissions gap reports, scenario analyses, and policy inventories are common sources. The term is often used in Finnish media and policy discussions as a concise way to communicate urgency.

Causes and responses: The gap stems from factors such as insufficient policy ambition, socioeconomic barriers, technology and infrastructure challenges, and insufficient financing. Addressing it involves stronger targets, price signals such as carbon pricing, speedier deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency, and international cooperation to close funding and technology gaps.

See also: emissions gap, Paris Agreement, carbon budget, mitigation.