Reunaalueiden

Reunaalueiden refer to a geographical concept in Finland, specifically in the context of municipalities and administrative divisions. The term is derived from the Finnish words "reuna" meaning "border" or "edge," and "alue," meaning "area" or "region."

Reunaalueiden generally refers to the areas surrounding a municipality or administrative region, often including rural areas, wilderness, or national parks. These areas might not be directly integrated into the urban fabric of the nearby settlement but still share economic, cultural, or ecological ties with it. The reunaalueiden concept acknowledges the interdependence and interconnectedness between urban and rural areas.

Historically, the concept of reunaalueiden has gained relevance in Finland due to its vast natural resources and the increasing need for planning and management of these areas. Municipalities often collaborate with each other to administrate the reunaalueiden effectively, addressing issues related to environmental conservation, natural resource management, and regional social development.

In Finland's administrative reform in 2005, the concept of reunaalueiden played a role in categorizing municipalities according to their functional relationships and land-use characteristics. The modifications to the administrative divisions aimed to harmonize regional policies, improve resource distribution, and ensure cooperation across borders. While the exact application of reunaalueiden might vary across local authorities and policies, the notion remains a fundamental aspect of Finland's regional planning and management.

Studies and implementation of the reunaalueiden concept continue to involve input from environmental agencies, planners, and researchers interested in addressing the unique socio-economic and ecological features of Finland's rural peripheries.