Statement on Bornholm June 2013

BSPC Working Group on Green Growth and Energy EfficiencyBornholm, 11 June 2013Statement by the Working Group on Green Growth and Energy Efficiencyof the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference (BSPC)In order to meet the challenges of tomorrow, a transformation to more environmentally sustainable economies is needed in the Baltic Sea Region. The BSPC Working Group on Green Growth and Energy Efficiency has been established by the Baltic Sea Parliamentary Conference to develop policy recommendations that support that goal.At its meeting on the island of Bornholm 10-11 June 2013, the Working Group has learned how the public, businesses and politicians have designed and implemented a vision for sustainable development in an islands community of some 40.000 people. “Bornholm - Bright Green Island” is a visionary as well as a practical instrument, which has brought about a positive development for the people of Bornholm. It can serve as useful example for the Baltic Sea Region in how to use limited natural resources sustainably. As a test centre for new technologies, Bornholm will also serve the wider European and Global community in identifying solutions that increase energy efficiency and promote the use of renewable energy.The “Bornholm Bright Green Island” initiative illustrates the importance of having a broad based political support and to engage the public and the business community to support a transformation in the economy. The significance of awareness-raising and the involvement of households as well as school children is another lesson that can be learned from Bornholm. The initiative demonstrates how island societies and small communities, taking advantage of their special circumstances, can contribute to the solution of global challengesThe BSPC Working Group on Green Growth and Energy Efficiency commends the effort made by the Municipal and Regional Authorities of Bornholm, the businesses community and the public at large, and encourages other communities around the Baltic Sea to use the experiences in Bornholm as a source of inspiration.