Sustainable use

Certification symbols guarantee that a forest is used sustainably. Take a closer look at the terms and conditions of the certification systems by using the magnifying glass!

In addition to laws and decrees, the responsible and sustainable use of forests is steered with certificates. In Finland, nearly all commercial forests are certified. In certified multiple-use forests, biodiversity is promoted by leaving retention tree groups, through prescribed burning, by favouring mixed stands, by taking into account valuable habitats, and by leaving various buffer zones in forests. In other words, the certification guarantees to the product buyer that biodiversity and the cultural and recreational values of forests have been taken into consideration in the production. The forest certification process can also be carried out as a regional group certification, in which case an outside party will monitor that the requirements are met each year.  Some 90 per cent of commercial forests in Finland have a PEFC certificate, and 10 per cent are FSC certified. While the FSC certificate poses stricter requirements, the key differences between the two certification systems are found in the requirements for nature sites, the protective zones left around water bodies, and requirements pertaining to retention trees and decaying wood. In addition to the certifications, forest protection is also important, and in northern Finland it is focused on state-owned forests.