Monday, October 28, 2024
This year’s annual National Forest Days, known as Metsäpäivät, saw distinguished awards presented by the Finnish Forestry Association to individuals and organisations for their significant impact on Finland’s forestry sector.
Merit Plaque Awarded to Suomen Latu for Promoting Forest Recreation
On Thursday, the Finnish Forestry Association presented a Merit Plaque to Suomen Latu, recognising the organisation’s exceptional efforts in promoting the recreational use of Finland’s forests, particularly among families. Suomen Latu’s initiatives encourage children and adults alike to explore and appreciate nature. Their popular event, Nuku yö ulkona (Sleep a Night Outdoors), held in collaboration with outdoor and forestry partners, attracted 135,000 participants last year alone.
“Suomen Latu serves as a bridge-builder, connecting diverse perspectives on forest use and supporting collaboration across the sector,” stated Kirsi Joensuu, Executive Director of the Finnish Forestry Association. “It is an honour to recognise their contributions to multi-purpose forest engagement.”
Suomen Latu is one of the Finnish Forestry Association’s 50 members, all of whom play a vital role in the forestry sector. The Merit Plaque is awarded to institutions that significantly benefit the Finnish forest industry.
Silver Merit Badges for Forest Communication and Game Habitat Development
Two silver merit badges were awarded to forestry professionals who have advanced communication and collaboration within the sector.
Petri Pajunen, Director of the Forest Management Association of Etelä-Savo, received a silver badge for his innovative communication efforts. Pajunen has created new ways of engaging the public and forestry professionals, such as through Metsä Rokkaa, an event in Juva where information sessions bring forestry topics directly to the community. It is hoped his example will inspire others in the sector to increase communication efforts.
Marko Svensberg from the Finnish Game Centre was also awarded a silver badge in recognition of his extensive work building cooperation across forestry, agricultural, and game management stakeholders. Throughout his 20-year career, Svensberg has led numerous projects that integrate game habitat management within profitable agriculture and forestry, addressing issues from water conservation to deer population management.
Golden Merit Badges Awarded for Contributions to Forest Research and Sawmill Industry
Two golden merit badges, among the highest awards in Finnish forestry, were presented to Jari Hynynen and Tommi Sneck for their influential work.
Research Professor Jari Hynynen, from the Natural Resources Institute Finland, was honoured for his nearly four-decade career dedicated to advancing forest management practices in boreal forests. His research has provided reliable insights into forest growth, wood production, and ecosystem sustainability, and has played a pivotal role in shaping social and policy discussions around forestry.
Tommi Sneck, Director of the Sawmill Industry at Koskisen Oyj, was celebrated for his commitment to the wood products sector. As chairman of Sahateollisuus ry (2020–2023) and STMY, the Association of Finnish Sawmill Industry Men, Sneck transformed these organisations into influential advocates for the industry. His contributions have furthered sawmill industry education at Lahti University of Applied Sciences, ensuring Finland’s wood products industry continues to thrive at both national and international levels.
Recognition of Everyday Forestry Heroes
During the event, the Finnish Forest Foundation also honoured several unsung heroes within the forestry community, acknowledging those who contribute to a positive working environment. The Foundation’s awards, presented alongside the National Forest Days, reflect the crucial everyday work undertaken by forestry professionals throughout Finland.
The recognitions at National Forest Days emphasise Finland’s commitment to sustainable and collaborative forestry, celebrating achievements that benefit the industry as well as society.
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