Balancing a passion for automobiles and a commitment to sustainability, Fredrika Klarén, Polestar’s head of sustainability, is paving the way for a new era in the automotive industry. In a conversation with Lisa Grainger, Klarén discusses her vision for a future where enjoying life and caring for the planet go hand in hand.
Fredrika Klarén stands out in the world of sustainability advocates. Unlike many who obscure the truth, Klarén speaks candidly about her love for cars — their design, speed, and the freedom they provide. “I want to live a full life,” she shares from her office in Gothenburg, emphasizing that she refuses to compromise. However, her commitment to the planet is unwavering. Since 2016, she and her family have been dedicated to a personal climate plan, incorporating solar panels, reducing meat consumption, and limiting air travel to once a year. They even postponed buying a boat until they could find one with a bio-fuel engine.
Electric Cars: A Global Necessity
With an estimated 1.5 billion cars worldwide, the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) is more critical than ever. Vehicle emissions are responsible for over 15 percent of global greenhouse gases, and recent climate projections suggest that preventing a temperature rise beyond 1.5°C by 2030 is unlikely. Al Gore highlighted the urgency, stating, “an inflection point for EV sales” has been reached, but more acceleration is needed. Norway sets an example, with every new car sold being electric, a model Klarén believes should be adopted globally.
The UK leads as Polestar’s largest market, having recently sold its 50,000th EV. Other key markets include China, Norway, Sweden, and Ethiopia, the latter potentially banning fossil-fuel cars by 2030. China’s rapid transition to a green economy is notable, with Klarén remarking, “China is beating everyone else” as it locks into a wind economy and comprehensive green policies. This progress benefits Polestar greatly, thanks to its Chinese ownership under the Geely Holding Group, a leader in innovation and technology.
Polestar aims to create a carbon-neutral car by 2030, making strides each year. The latest Polestar 4 boasts the lowest carbon impact yet at 19.4 tonnes CO2e. Unlike many automakers, Polestar provides a carbon footprint report with each vehicle, ensuring transparency. Furthermore, the Polestar 5, set for a 2026 release, will feature upholstery from innovative flax fabrics, a choice that resonates well with customers, as Klarén notes, “If it’s a material they can see, touch and even pick, they get so engaged and proud.”
Klarén believes customer engagement is crucial for planetary transformation. Observations from COP25 suggest governmental action may fall short, leaving businesses and individuals to drive change. “We can make it happen,” she asserts, highlighting the pivotal role of corporate and consumer responsibility in shaping a sustainable future.
Original Story at www.countryandtownhouse.com