Jakobstad has participated in the NetZeroCities Twin City collaboration programme with Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, as its partner city. The aim of the collaboration has been to exchange experiences and identify new ways of achieving climate goals through mutual learning between cities.

Representatives from Jakobstad visited Reykjavík in May 2025 and April 2026, while representatives from Reykjavík visited Jakobstad in November 2025. The project concluded on 30 May 2026.

During the visits, Jakobstad has been particularly interested in Reykjavík’s work to promote sustainable mobility. Although Reykjavík is considerably larger than Jakobstad, both cities share the need to reduce emissions from transport. Reykjavík has invested in walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure and has also conducted extensive research into residents’ attitudes and travel behaviour.

Jakobstad is especially interested in attitude surveys and how they can be used to support mobility planning and development. The city wishes to gain a better understanding of residents’ views on walking and cycling and to use this information, for example, when improving cycling conditions in the town centre.

The collaboration has reinforced the understanding that promoting sustainable modes of transport requires both well-functioning infrastructure and efforts to influence attitudes and behaviour. The goal is to encourage more people to choose walking or cycling instead of driving in their daily lives, for example through campaigns and community events.

The NetZeroCities collaboration has provided Jakobstad with valuable insights into how sustainable mobility can be promoted in ways that are suited to local conditions.