Evaluating the effectiveness of climate crisis strategies through design: The impact on immigrant students in Helsinki and Espoo, Finland

Abstract

This thesis investigates the impact of climate change on Finland's preparedness strategies, particularly in relation to its increasingly heterogeneous population due to immigration. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of climate crisis preparedness strategies implemented by government institutions and other organizations.

The current literature reveals that Finland’s preparedness strategies are primarily designed in a top-down manner. The Security Strategy for Society 2017, a government resolution, adopts a comprehensive model requiring all sectors of society to be prepared for potential crises. However, this model is questioned for its outdated measures and weak connection to individual members of society. The literature review also explores design-for-policy concepts to identify potential design interventions to address these challenges.

Through qualitative desk research, a systems map of Finland’s disaster preparedness framework was developed, outlining key actors, policies, organizations, and institutions. Empirical data were collected via interviews with immigrant students and decision-makers from the cities of Espoo and Helsinki. The analysis identified seven key themes highlighting gaps in the current preparedness strategies, including a lack of inclusivity in policy formation and insufficient preparedness among immigrant students.

In response, this study recommends five actionable design-for-policy interventions to address these gaps, tailored to the contexts of Espoo and Helsinki. These include citizen-centred design, co-design, the integration of systems thinking, improved communication strategies, and the use of technology to enhance Finland’s preparedness for climate crises.