Vesilaki

Vesilaki, commonly translated as the Water Act, is the Finnish law governing the use and protection of water resources. It covers surface waters, groundwater, and related water services and infrastructure. The act aims to ensure sustainable use of water, protect aquatic ecosystems, safeguard drinking water quality, and support coherent water resources management across regions.

Scope and provisions: Vesilaki regulates licensing for water use and for activities that affect water bodies, such as extraction of water, discharges of wastewater, construction in or near water, dredging, or changes in land use that may impact hydrology. It sets conditions for permits, monitoring, reporting, and compliance. The act also provides for water protection zones, pollution prevention measures, and measures to counter droughts and floods. It requires planning at regional and national levels, including water resources management plans and water protection plans, consistent with the EU Water Framework Directive.

Administration: In Finland, the competent authorities include regional Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY-centres) in cooperation with the Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE) and the Ministry of the Environment. Local municipalities participate in land-use planning and protection activities under the act. The act provides for public participation in permit decisions and for appeal to administrative courts.

Relation and impact: Vesilaki implements the EU Water Framework Directive requirements and coordinates with other environmental and land-use laws. It is periodically amended to reflect policy changes, scientific knowledge, and climate considerations. The act is central to ensuring water security, ecosystem health, and sustainable development.