Nature, waters and sea
When ecosystems remain in good condition, they can better withstand pressures such as climate change. One of the most urgent tasks is to stop the loss of nature and the eutrophication of water bodies. Already damaged areas can be revived through rewilding or restoration. Everyone can take part in this!
Clean nature and waters for future generations
Nature and water are vital to us. The way we treat them now affects the condition they will remain in for future generations.
Diversity is a basic feature of nature. One square metre of any area in nature contain dozens, sometimes even hundreds of plant and animal species.
One of the key environmental issues is how we can protect and manage our waters for future generations. It requires a lot of research, action and cooperation.
Nature is an important part of the lives of all of us humans. Finns spend much of their time outside in nature.
Landscapes are formed by interaction between humans and nature, which makes them bearers of historical and cultural values.
Natura 2000 areas in Finland
The European Union aims to halt the loss of biodiversity throughout its territory. One of the most important means to achieve this goal is the Natura 2000 network. Natura protection areas in Finland covers around five million hectares.
How are Finland's nature and waters?
A significant proportion of Finland's species are at risk of extinction. Almost half of the habitat types found in Finland are threatened. Of Finland’s water bodies, groundwaters are in the best condition, whereas small water bodies are in the poorest condition.
Generally there are few environmentally harmful substances. Concentration limits of a few substances are commonly exceeded.
Inland waters, on average, are in good condition. Large lakes are in the best condition, while rivers are in the weakest condition.
The Baltic Sea is affected by eutrophication, certain harmful substances, and the increasing use of marine areas.
Finland has plenty of high-quality groundwater. The risks associated with groundwater are acknowledged and efforts are made to prevent them.
A significant proportion of Finland's species are at risk of extinction. The poor situation is mainly due to changes in their habitats.
Almost half of the habitat types found in Finland are threatened. This is due to land and resource use that is changing nature.
