STTK supports Finnish maritime strategy and EU emissions trading

The Finnish Confederation of Professionals (STTK) has issued statements regarding Finland’s maritime industry strategy and European emissions trading policies. Regarding the maritime strategy for 2035, STTK supports the focus on high-tech innovation, particularly in energy-efficient cruise ships, ice-strengthened vessels, and icebreakers. The organization emphasizes that maintaining competitiveness requires sustained investment in R&D, especially concerning electrification, new fuel solutions, and the impacts of AI and geopolitics.

STTK also highlighted challenges in labor availability, noting competition for skilled workers from the construction and defense sectors. While supporting recommendations to expand vocational and higher education, the organization expressed concern over the potential reduction of public funding for education.

On the environmental front, STTK and Nordic trade unions support the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) and oppose any delays to the ETS2 system. They argue that delaying the green transition creates uncertainty for early adopters like Finland and could inadvertently benefit competitors such as China or Russia. STTK advocates for a just transition that protects both pioneering companies and workers through social partner consultation and EU directives.