Erioskentä

Erioskentä is a Finnish term that broadly refers to the collection and gathering of mosses. This practice has historically been important in Finland for various purposes, including insulation, bedding, and fuel. Mosses, particularly Sphagnum species, possess excellent absorbent and insulating properties, making them a valuable natural resource. In traditional Finnish rural life, mosses were harvested from bogs and forests. They were used to fill gaps in log cabins to prevent drafts and retain heat, significantly improving living conditions during cold winters. Additionally, dried moss could be used as a readily available fuel source, though its efficiency was lower than wood. Moss was also sometimes used for bedding, providing a soft and insulating layer. While modern building materials and insulation methods have largely replaced the traditional uses of moss, the term Erioskentä still represents a connection to Finland's historical reliance on natural resources and the ingenuity of past generations. The practice also highlights the ecological importance of mosses in various environments.