Sweden

Book chapter, 2017

Sweden is highly dependent on exports, which account for approximately 50% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Around 40% of the exports are from the manufacturing industry and around 10% each from the chemical, mining and steel, and forest industries. The most important trading partners are Germany and the neighbouring Nordic countries. Sweden’s welfare systems are extensive, delivering public education, healthcare, pensions and health insurance, all funded by high taxes. One important outcome is that women are supported in their ability to work and there is public care for the elderly. Swedish environmental legislation dates back to the Environmental Protection Act of 1969, and even earlier legislation related to water management. Since the country became a member of the European Union (EU), its environmental policies have been aligned to EU policies, resulting in, among other things, the Swedish Environmental Code of 1998.