12 / 311
[
] 13
JARI KOSKINEN, MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY, FINLAND
Finland’s forest sector has recently faced new challenges, including the global economic crisis, structural
changes in industry and changing expectations concerning the roles of forests. To meet these emerging
needs, we are reshaping our forest-related policies, institutional and legal frameworks, economic
instruments and information resources.
The cornerstone of Finland’s forest policy, the National Forest Programme 2015, was renewed in 2010 to
account for recent developments and to improve its coherence with other forest-related policies, including
biodiversity initiatives and the national climate and energy strategy.
Our forest policies directly promote sustainable forest management in Finland and the achievement of
global objectives, including those set by the United Nations Forum on Forests.
Finland’s unique forest ownership structure provides a robust basis for sustainable forest management. Our
forests are largely owned by families and small-scale forestry represents a significant source of income for many
households. This type of ownership encourages sustainable forest management that considers the needs of
future generations.
State-owned forests, mainly located in the north, are managed by the state agency Metsähallitus to fulfil
multiple functions. The needs of the indigenous Sámi people represent an important consideration regarding
forest management in Finnish Lapland.
All of Finland’s forests, regardless of their ownership, are maintained according to the principles of
sustainable forest management. In addition, our legal tradition gives everyone free access to all forests for
recreational purposes, including picking wild berries and mushrooms.
In Finland, we are convinced that our aim to build a ‘green economy’ will provide unique opportunities for
the forest sector locally, nationally and globally. This approach is not only about technology, but is a holistic
approach encompassing many social and ecological benefits. It will particularly enhance socio-economic
development in rural regions.
The policies needed to reach these goals must go far beyond those of the traditional forest sector. Cross-sectoral
approaches and investments are crucial and private sector and financial institutions must also be involved.
By treating these challenges as opportunities, we believe that in Finland we can continue to creatively utilize
our sustainably managed forests as a pillar of the national economy and a source of livelihood and well-being
for our people.
Jari Koskinen
Minister for Agriculture and Forestry
Finland