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Finland unveils forest growth plan to meet climate goals
HELSINKI, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Finland has unveiled a wide-ranging plan to boost forest growth and restore the carbon sink capacity of its woodlands, in a bid to meet national climate targets and strengthen long-term forest resilience, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry said on Friday.
The initiative, part of the government's broader climate strategy, includes legislative reforms, new financial incentives, and targeted support for forest owners. It was developed in consultation with researchers and forestry stakeholders and aligns with the country's National Forest Strategy and Climate Act.
"The goal is to promote forest health, growth and carbon sequestration, while also preparing for climate-related risks such as increased forest damage," the ministry said in a statement.
Under the plan, the government will revise forest legislation to support faster regeneration and the preservation of forest cover. A working group has been established to draft amendments to the Forest Act and associated decrees.
Additional funding will be directed to Metka, the national forestry incentive scheme, to expand ash fertilization of peatlands. The treated area is expected to grow from around 11,000 to 40,000 hectares annually, enhancing forest productivity for up to 30 years with a single application.
A new support scheme, to be introduced between 2025 and 2027, will encourage afforestation of abandoned farmland, disused peat production sites, and low-yield peat soils.
The package also includes measures to improve forest damage prevention and monitoring. Training will be expanded for landowners and forestry professionals to increase awareness of climate risks, forest breeding techniques, and sustainable management practices.
More details on the project themes and timeline are expected in August, the ministry said.
Finland is legally committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 under its Climate Act. The country also endorses the European Commission's proposal to cut the European Union's net greenhouse gas emissions by 90 percent from 1990 levels by 2040, under a planned amendment to the European Climate Law.
