Metsä Group has selected 22 new environmental initiatives for support under its Funding Programme for Nature Projects, reinforcing efforts to improve biodiversity and ecological restoration across Finland.
The latest funding round will distribute a total of €300,000 to projects focused on strengthening natural habitats, enhancing ecosystem resilience and encouraging local community participation in conservation activities.
This year’s programme attracted unprecedented interest.
A record 122 applications were submitted from organisations and groups seeking financial support for biodiversity-focused initiatives. The growing number of applicants highlights increasing engagement in nature conservation and restoration activities throughout Finland.
Several approved projects combine practical environmental measures with education and community involvement.
Among the projects selected for funding is the restoration of the Sarvikas wetland. The initiative aims to transform the area into a significant habitat for threatened bird species. Restoration activities are expected to improve ecological conditions while supporting wildlife populations dependent on wetland environments.
Another funded project is located in Säkylä.
The initiative focuses on improving biodiversity at local nature sites through a range of targeted measures. Planned activities include the establishment of meadow habitats, implementation of pollinator-friendly solutions and direct involvement of schoolchildren in environmental management work.
Community engagement remains a central theme.
Many successful applications demonstrated a commitment to combining habitat enhancement with public participation. Educational activities have been integrated into several projects to increase awareness of biodiversity issues among local residents and younger generations.
According to Shaheena Turak, Nature Expert at Metsä Group, interest in the programme continues to expand each year.
She noted that both the volume and quality of submissions reached new levels during the latest application period. The applications reflected a wide range of expertise, practical knowledge and well-developed ideas designed to strengthen biodiversity across Finland.
Funding often plays a critical role.
Turak highlighted that many projects already possess strong implementation plans but require financial backing before activities can commence. The programme is intended to help bridge that gap and accelerate environmental improvements on the ground.
Project assessment was supported by an independent expert panel.
Representatives from several prominent organisations participated in the evaluation process. These included Finland’s Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the University of Eastern Finland, the Finnish Innovation Fund Sitra and the Central Union of Agricultural Producers and Forest Owners (MTK).
The panel reviewed applications against established criteria.
Environmental impact, feasibility and measurable biodiversity outcomes were among the key considerations during the selection process. Projects were assessed for their ability to deliver tangible ecological benefits.
This year also marked the first participation of Marja Järvenpää from Sitra as a member of the evaluation panel.
Järvenpää said the applications demonstrated a strong understanding of the importance of restoring nature and improving ecosystem health. She observed a high level of commitment among applicants representing a variety of sectors and communities.
Restoration was identified as a key environmental tool.
According to Järvenpää, habitat restoration contributes to multiple environmental objectives. Improvements in water quality can be supported. Climate adaptation measures may be strengthened. Pollination services can also be protected through targeted restoration activities.
Additional societal benefits were recognised.
Health and wellbeing outcomes are often linked to healthier natural environments. Many applications illustrated practical ways in which biodiversity enhancement can generate wider community benefits alongside ecological gains.
The number of high-quality submissions exceeded expectations.
Numerous proposals presented detailed plans for advancing restoration activities and improving habitat conditions across different landscapes. Competition for funding was therefore particularly strong this year.
Metsä Group’s Funding Programme for Nature Projects supports initiatives both within and beyond commercial forest areas.
A key requirement is that every supported project delivers measurable positive outcomes for biodiversity. This emphasis on quantifiable environmental results helps ensure that funding contributes to long-term ecological improvement.
The programme has expanded considerably since its launch.
Between 2021 and 2026, support has been provided to 111 biodiversity-focused projects. Total funding distributed through the initiative has now reached €2.7 million.
The programme forms part of Metsä Group’s broader sustainability strategy.
The company continues to promote regenerative forestry practices aimed at strengthening forest ecosystems while maintaining productive forest management. Biodiversity enhancement is viewed as an important component of long-term environmental stewardship.
Metsä Group maintains strong links to Finland’s forest sector.
Its parent organisation, Metsäliitto Cooperative, is owned by approximately 90,000 forest owners. The company operates across several forest-based industries, including pulp, paperboard, tissue products, greaseproof papers, wood products, timber procurement and forest services.
Sustainability remains a strategic priority.
The organisation also promotes diversity, equality and inclusion across its operations. Environmental responsibility continues to play a significant role in corporate decision-making and investment planning.
In 2025, Metsä Group reported sales of €5.8 billion and employed approximately 8,800 people.
Through continued investment in biodiversity initiatives, the company aims to support Finland’s environmental objectives while contributing to healthier ecosystems and more resilient natural landscapes for future generations.
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