Healthy environment
The quality of the environment has a significant impact on people's well-being. Finnish residential environments are generally healthy and pleasant by international standards. Outdoor air is mostly clean, and harmful substances are generally absent from the soil and groundwater.
The biggest problems appear in large urban centres. Suspended fine particles in the air occasionally deteriorate street air quality, resulting in health hazards. Urban residents are also bothered by noise, littering, and the wear and tear of nearby natural areas. Those seeking the tranquility of nature must travel further, contributing to increased traffic and its associated problems.
Towards a healthier environment
Efforts have been made to improve the healthiness of residential environments, and the work continues. Airborne emissions have decreased and will continue to do so in line with the obligations set by the European Union. Noise is being addressed both through legislation and urban planning.
Attention has also been directed towards soil health. In urban areas, soil quality is compromised by impermeable surface coverings, while in rural areas, issues include soil depletion, erosion, and compaction.
