luonnonpuistoissa

Luonnonpuisto, the Finnish term for nature park, is a protected area designation that integrates environmental conservation with public recreation. The concept originated in the 1970s, reflecting a shift from strict protection to a more flexible model that allows sustainable use of natural resources. Under the Finnish Nature Conservation Act (Luonnonsuojelulaki) of 1995, a lunettes form as "luonnonpuisto" which is overseen by the municipality in collaboration with the Finnish Environment Institute and local stakeholders. Each park is managed under a specific natural park plan, which details objectives for conservation, cultural heritage preservation, and sustainable development.

In terms of size and number, Finland currently administers around 30 nature parks covering approximately 39,000 hectares. They vary widely in landscape, from tundra and boreal forests to waterfalls and wetlands. Nuuksio, located near Helsinki, is the most visited, illustrating the balance of biodiversity support and tourist infrastructure. Eco‑tourism, educational trails, and low‑impact camping are typical activities, while development projects in park zones are subject to rigorous environmental assessments.

The governance model encourages community participation: local councils, nature associations, and private landowners all contribute to management decisions. Funding comes from a mix of municipal budgets, national grants, and entrance or usage fees. Overall, Finnish nature parks aim to protect representative ecosystems, support scientific research, and provide recreational opportunities while integrating sustainable land‑use practices.