The operations of the Metsä Conservation Foundation have commenced, and it can now receive applications for permanent protection of forest sites situated in Finland.
Metsäliitto Cooperative, parent company of Metsä Group, established the Metsä Conservation Foundation in 2025 due to the need for additional protection of forests with significant natural value in Finland. The foundation’s goal is to complement the permanent conservation network of valuable forests. An initiative for conservation is made by the forest owner, who may receive financial compensation for a site whose protection supports national biodiversity objectives.
“The first conservation round of the Metsä Conservation Foundation has started, and conservation applications are accepted from 5 March to 30 April 2026. If your forest has conservation values, please complete the conservation application form on the foundation’s website,” says Shaheena Turak, the foundation’s manager.
Forest owners are encouraged to propose sites for conservation whose permanent protection would benefit forest species by safeguarding their habitats. The conservation decision is influenced by the site’s ecological characteristics, such as species diversity, an environment distinct from typical commercial forests, old-growth trees, or abundant and diverse deadwood.
Additionally, ecosystems selected for conservation include those with varied nutrient levels or hydrology, which increase the area’s biodiversity. Habitats created by disturbances, such as forest fires, may also be chosen for protection.
“I encourage forest owners to submit conservation applications as soon as possible to ensure their inclusion in this year’s conservation round,” Turak says.
Instructions for submitting a conservation application and information about the progress of the conservation process can be found on the Conservation Foundation’s website metsansuojelusaatio.fi. Once the foundation and the landowner have signed the conservation agreement, a private conservation area is established by officials.
The establishment of the Conservation Foundation is one of Metsä Group’s measures aimed at enhancing the state of nature in commercial forests and beyond.
The board of Metsäliitto Cooperative has granted the foundation a basic capital of one million euros and a financing authorisation of ten million euros for the coming years. The foundation is also actively seeking funding partners to join its activities. All donations are directed towards to conservation work.
Further information about the foundation’s operations and conservation criteria can be found on the foundation’s website at metsansuojelusaatio.fi, currently only in Finnish.
Photo/Metsä
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