The Finnish Ministry of the Environment has announced an expansion plan for the Eastern Gulf of Finland National Park, which will now encompass marine areas in addition to its current landmasses of islands and skerries. This expansion is set to significantly enhance the park’s ecological value, transforming it into a genuine marine park, which is projected to become one of the largest and most significant merist national parks in Finland. Environmental and Climate Minister Sari Multala emphasizes that the unique combination of freshwater and saline species due to the low salinity in the Eastern Gulf of Finland creates an extraordinary ecosystem that requires and will receive vital protection under national park regulations.

The planned addition of over 63,000 hectares, approximately 630 square kilometers, of marine areas brings to light the lack of access for recreational walking within the park, which could lead to concerns regarding public engagement with natural spaces. However, proponents of the plan argue that the ecological benefits of protecting this unique underwater environment far outweigh the limitations on human access. Currently, Finland has only four national parks that are larger than the proposed expansion, with the largest being the Lehtiniemi National Park.

This initiative not only illustrates Finland's commitment to environmental conservation but also aligns with broader aims of preserving biodiversity and contributing to climate action. The establishment and expansion of national parks are critical steps in combating the effects of climate change and promoting sustainable usage of natural resources, a move that resonates well within the context of Finland's strategic environmental goals and the increasing global emphasis on climate resilience.