Finns Oppose Mining in Nature Reserves

The future of Viiankiaapa, a doubly protected mire in Sodankylä and one of Europe's most representative, is uncertain. Mining company AA Sakatti Mining Oy seeks permission to deviate from Natura conservation rules to establish a mine in the area. The Ministry of the Environment is currently preparing a decision, which the Council of State will make.

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Mining would significantly harm Viiankiaapa's nature.

The exception is sought because, by law, the conservation values of areas within the European Union's Natura 2000 network must not be significantly weakened. Mining would substantially degrade Viiankiaapa's nature. The mire is also a legally established mire conservation area due to its unique natural values, and changing the legislation enabling its protection would require a decision from Parliament.

This situation presents a significant precedent for nature conservation in Finland and Europe. The government could make the most significant nature conservation act of its entire term or lose credibility as a defender of Finnish nature. If the exception permit is granted, it could encourage other mining companies to pursue mining operations in nature reserves.

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79 percent of Finns do not accept mining in nature reserves.

Public opinion is clear: 79% of Finns do not accept mining in nature reserves, according to a survey commissioned by the Finnish Nature League. Support for the mine does not exceed a majority among supporters of any parliamentary party. Furthermore, 73% of respondents find mineral exploration in nature reserves unacceptable, even though it is legally prohibited only in national parks and nature reserves. Mining legislation needs improvement to meet public perception of justice and conservation needs.

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Mining legislation must be improved so that it corresponds to people's sense of justice and the needs of nature conservation.