Friday, September 5, 2025
This autumn marks a significant milestone for the Finnish Forest Foundation, celebrating 30 years of impactful contributions to Finland’s forestry industry. Established in 1995, the Foundation has played a key role in strengthening the forest sector’s message and supporting research and educational projects for future generations. It continues to focus on advancing the sustainable use of forests while fostering innovation in the forestry industry.
Over its three-decade journey, the Foundation has been at the forefront of promoting the importance of forests. It has awarded grants totalling €40 million, empowering thousands of projects that promote forest education, youth engagement, and industry research. This anniversary is not only a reflection on the past but also a commitment to continued efforts in developing sustainable forestry practices for the future.
Empowering the Next Generation with Forest Education
The Foundation has consistently focused on engaging younger generations through projects such as the Forest Quiz, designed for middle school students. These initiatives have inspired countless students to explore the depths of forestry and appreciate the essential role forests play in society. Furthermore, the Forest Academy for Decision-makers has ensured that key stakeholders in Finnish society gain a comprehensive understanding of the forestry industry’s complexities.
“In the anniversary year, we want to highlight research projects and educational initiatives for young people. These efforts ensure that future generations are well-informed about the value of our forests,” said Martta Fredrikson, CEO of the Finnish Forest Foundation.
Innovating for the Future of Forest Research and Education
The Foundation continues to focus on forward-thinking initiatives. A standout project, “All Sixth Graders in the Forest,” aims to give every sixth-grade student in Finland the opportunity to experience a forest day. Piloted this year, the project has set the stage for nationwide implementation in the coming years.
“The forest days for school children are crucial for cultivating future stewards of our forests. These positive experiences leave lasting memories that will resonate through generations,” Fredrikson added.
In addition to educational projects, the Foundation funds research that explores the future of forests. Current studies aim to predict how forest biodiversity will evolve by 2100 and to understand the future challenges the forestry industry will face, including climate change adaptation and forest protection.
Research and Development in Focus
The Finnish Forest Foundation’s strategic approach has seen an increasing emphasis on research funding. With a focus on long-term sustainability, the Foundation has invested in groundbreaking projects that offer valuable insights into the diverse challenges faced by the forest industry. These projects examine everything from the ecological value of voluntary forest protection to predicting the composition of forests in the coming decades.
“We need researched information about forests to support decision-making. The research funding we provide aims to solve challenges within the industry, such as adapting to climate change,” said Juha Jumppanen, Chairman of the Board.
Grants to Shape the Future
For 2025, the Finnish Forest Foundation plans to distribute an estimated €2 million in grants. The focus remains on funding projects that contribute to education, research, and sustainable forestry practices, helping the industry evolve and adapt to new challenges.
A Tribute to the Supporters of the Foundation
The Forest Foundation operates largely through donations, with forest owners contributing a portion of their timber sales to fund its projects. This vital support has allowed the Foundation to remain an influential force in forestry education and research. Notably, the Foundation also received a significant bequest last autumn: a forest property in North Karelia, valued at over a million euros. This generous gift will directly support the Foundation’s educational projects.
“The Foundation would not exist without the support of forest owners and individuals who believe in our mission. This 30th anniversary is a tribute to them,” Fredrikson noted.
A Year of Celebration
The Finnish Forest Foundation’s anniversary celebrations will include events in Tampere, Oulu, and Kuopio this October, where key stakeholders will reflect on the Foundation’s impact and look toward the future of Finland’s forest industry. As the Foundation celebrates its achievements, it continues to inspire greater public awareness and action in the sustainable management of Finland’s forests.
The Foundation’s work ensures that the forest industry remains a cornerstone of Finland’s economy while also nurturing the next generation’s understanding of the environment. Looking ahead, the Foundation remains committed to facilitating the research and educational projects that will lead to a greener and more sustainable future for the forestry sector.
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Tags: Finnish Forest Foundation, Finnish forests, forest education, forest industry, forest projects, forestry research, sustainable forestry
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