I am running in the municipal elections in Tampere to ensure that Tampere is truly and openly a city for everyone, now and in the future. I want Tampere to be a place where people can live a good and meaningful life within the limits of our planet.

Good housing belongs to everyone

In my Tampere, high-quality and affordable homes are offered to everyone, regardless of a person's life situation or place of residence. Good housing belongs to everyone, not just those who are doing well in life. I want to prevent regional segregation: there must be enough choice and homes that meet different needs in different parts of Tampere. The already built environment tells stories about Tampere's history. That is why existing buildings are valued and repaired, and not demolished to make way for new ones. Tampere's layered character is our common cultural heritage.

Nature is the foundation of well-being

In my Tampere, it is understood that nature is the basis of well-being and that taking care of biodiversity is also economically wise (1, 2). The growth of the city must not take away our important natural sites, but rather bring more opportunities to enjoy nature. For me, the Näsijärvi beach, the Pyynikki outdoor trails and the Kauppi forests are at the heart of being a Tampere resident. In my Tampere, accessible hiking trails will be added and Kauppi-Niihama will be made a recreation and nature conservation area.

My Tampere is a pioneer in stopping nature loss. Tampere was the first in Finland to calculate its nature footprint, and this pioneering spirit must be maintained. The city is reducing its own nature footprint with concrete actions in different sectors. The high-quality vegetarian food in schools and staff restaurants is so good that the consumption of meat dishes is automatically reduced. The city's construction projects show that sustainable choices can be stylish. Here, we know that nature loss cannot be stopped simply by planting individual meadows and planning green environments.

Sustainable mobility makes everyday life smoother

In my Tampere, everyone has the opportunity to travel smoothly - shift workers can easily get home from their night shift, skiers can get to Kauppi, and strollers will fit on the bus. When public transport is running, you can travel by bus and tram around the clock, and you can easily purchase an annual pass in installments. City bikes are available everywhere in Tampere - you can easily grab a bike from anywhere and get to your destination at your own pace. Getting around is so easy and smooth that even a preschooler can cycle to daycare with their family and one can roll with a wheelchair without any obstacles. In winter, snow doesn't stop everyday life - the streets are plowed on time, and you can get around easily, whether you have a stroller or a walking stick.

Events and the circular economy delight life

In my Tampere, the streets are full of life and greenery - less dreary Hallituskatu and more green Rongankatu! You won't get bored here, as there are interesting events in different areas: in Hämeenpuisto you can set off on a journey of world flavors, and at the Aleksanterinkatu Block Party you can meet people and party on the block. Green streets and public art make the environment pleasant, so every journey you take can be a moment in the midst of beauty. Tampere should not be a noisy concrete jungle, but a lively, beautiful and natural city that brightens up the day.

In my Tampere, culture belongs to everyone. The diversity and accessibility of culture is an asset for all of us: who wouldn't occasionally miss a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and want a little pampering? It could be a moment in the silence of the library, a trip to the magical world of theater, or rocking out to an emotional gig. The diversity of restaurants and the range of events guarantee that everyone will find their own way to enjoy the city's rich cultural life.

2nd hand clothes, recycling and borrowing goods is absolutely hot in my Tampere! A wide selection of great flea markets, second hand stores and high-quality lending services make sustainable lifestyle effortless and stylish. Buying used items is not only sensible, but also trendy.

References

1. World Economic Forum

2. The Economics of Biodiversity: The Dasgupta Review