Introducing Heidi Lehtiniemi: “I get to apply my theoretical expertise in practice”
Analyst Heidi Lehtiniemi’s work includes coordinating project activities, monitoring policy developments and preparing statements. For science advice to be successful, it is essential to be able to adapt knowledge to the context, and analysts can support researchers in this science communication.
During her studies and earlier career, Heidi Lehtiniemi has focused on the use of scientific knowledge and, more broadly, the role of science in society. In her work as an analyst, her strong theoretical understanding of knowledge use and its significance in societal change is a major advantage.
“I am especially glad that in this role I get to work hands‑on together with the panel members,” Lehtiniemi says.
Lehtiniemi’s work covers the entire project cycle.
“I coordinate the projects’ external stakeholder cooperation as well as internal collaboration between researchers and organisations. I prepare information summaries on project topics and also take part in producing publications,” Lehtiniemi explains.
In addition to her role as an analyst, Lehtiniemi works part‑time as a researcher at the Finnish Environment Institute. There, she works in projects related to the societal transformation required for a sustainability transition, drawing on several perspectives, methods and sectors.
“As a social‑science‑oriented environmental researcher, I have experience with a wide variety of environmental issues and policy sectors. In the analyst role, it is helpful to understand the interactions between phenomena, actors and objectives,” Lehtiniemi says.
Actors working with climate issues are already familiar to Lehtiniemi, and she also understands their interests well.
“In this work, it is valuable to be able to link climate‑related themes to other societal discussions,” Lehtiniemi notes.
“Mitigating climate change motivates me”
The Finnish Climate Change Panel is an independent scientific panel whose task is to assess the state of Finland’s climate policy, provide an up‑to‑date picture, and explain where Finland stands in relation to its climate goals.
“The aim is to provide decision‑makers with information on how climate targets can be achieved,” Lehtiniemi says.
Climate action is essential — and urgent. Climate change can still be significantly mitigated, society can adapt to it, and climate policy can be implemented more fairly.
“Climate change can no longer be completely stopped, but we can still influence the situation in the coming decades. Climate change affects everyone’s daily life and all policy sectors. It also affects Finland’s position in the world, which is why climate policy should matter to all of us. It is motivating that through my work I can help ensure that political decisions are based on science,” Lehtiniemi says.