Metsähallitus, the Finnish state-owned enterprise responsible for managing state lands and waters, has announced the start of an ambitious nature restoration project funded by the European Union. This initiative aims to rejuvenate and restore natural areas across eight provinces in Finland, including South Karelia, Kymenlaakso, Pirkanmaa, North Ostrobothnia, North Savo, Satakunta, Varsinais-Suomi, and later, Lapland. The project is set to take place between 2025 and 2030, focusing on a vast area of 590,000 hectares, and seeks to help address alarming biodiversity losses experienced in the country.

The restoration efforts include various critical activities such as the rehabilitation of wetlands and forests, the maintenance of traditional environments, and the construction of new wetlands. According to Metsähallitus, 12 percent of plant and animal species in Finland are currently threatened, highlighting the urgent need for this project. Even common species like sparrows and forest hares are witnessing population declines, primarily due to deteriorating habitats that have a significant impact on biodiversity.

The core objective of ecological restoration is to return habitats and their associated species to a natural state or as close to it as possible. By enabling these restoration efforts, Finland aims to halt the decline of its unique flora and fauna while fostering a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations. This project illustrates Finland's commitment to preserving its natural heritage and addressing environmental challenges in a systematic and EU-supported manner.