Similar challenges for Reykjavík and Jakobstad

Ritstjórn
Representatives from Reykjavík and Jakobstad.

Reykjavík has partnered with the city of Jakobstad in Finland for a European climate innovation project.

This partnership stems from Reykjavík's designation as a "Pilot City," recognizing it as a model for accelerating carbon neutrality through innovative climate projects. As Reykjavík's Twin City partner, Jakobstad will share transportation-focused climate initiatives, with both cities learning from each other's experiences.

Three Reykjavík City representatives — Ásdís Karen Waltersdóttir, Hrönn Hrafnsdóttir and Friðrik Klingbeil Gunnarsson — visited Jakobstad for a two-day orientation and working trip in November. The cities sit at similar latitudes and face comparable challenges, especially with weather, winter conditions and transportation planning. There's also significant common ground in waste management and sustainable solutions for city operations.

The main purpose of the trip was to strengthen connections between the cities, enhance collaboration and continue mutual knowledge transfer within the Pilot City framework.

During the visit, city representatives received a briefing on local conditions in Jakobstad, toured the town and learned about the city's key projects, particularly in waste management and transportation. They also visited Ekorosk, which handles waste management for the region and serves a similar role to Sorpa in the capital area.

Shared experience from Reykjavík

One of the key elements of the trip was sharing experience and lessons learned from Reykjavík, including the development of sustainable solutions in transportation, waste management and climate actions. Through discussions, presentations and field trips, mutual understanding develops about what works well in each city and which solutions can be transferred between locations.

The collaboration continues next year when Jakobstad representatives visit Reykjavík in spring 2026. The focus will continue on sharing knowledge created through the Pilot City project and further developing joint solutions for sustainable urban development.