Thousands expected at Sweden climate demo as election looms

Stockholm will see around 10,000 people converge for a climate demonstration on Sunday, just weeks before a general election where environmental concerns are high on voters' agendas. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson's right-wing government, bolstered by the Sweden Democrats party, has implemented policies that have cut petrol taxes and decreased the necessity for low-carbon additives in petrol.

Critics argue that these moves undermine Sweden's goal of reducing CO₂ emissions from transport by 70% from 2010 levels by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2045. The government has dismissed recommendations from a government-appointed commission on how to meet the 2030 target, which included raising taxes on petrol and diesel.

Beatrice Rindevall, head of the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation, which co-organises the demonstration, emphasized the urgency of enacting climate policy to cut emissions immediately, citing recent European heatwaves. Over 200 non-governmental organisations and associations are set to participate in the march, starting at 1.00pm (1100 GMT).

This marks the largest turnout for a Swedish climate demonstration to date. According to a recent survey by SVT, 37% of respondents placed the climate as their top priority in the election, surpassed only by healthcare, education, crime, and elderly care. The government contends that a gradual phase-out of fossil fuels is necessary to maintain Sweden's competitiveness and support domestic industries.