suojellut

Suojellut is a Finnish term meaning "protected" and is used in law and policy to describe objects or groups that are shielded from harm. As an adjective, it commonly appears in compound phrases such as suojeltu laji (protected species), suojeltu elinympäristö (protected habitat), and suojeltu rakennus (protected building).

In Finland, protection status is defined by legislation and official lists. The core framework is the Nature Conservation Act (Laki luonnonsuojelusta) and related regulations that designate species, habitats, and sites as suojeltu. When something is designated as suojeltu, activities that could harm its survival or integrity—such as killing or disturbing fauna, disturbing nests, removing plants, or damaging habitats—are restricted or prohibited.

Designation and enforcement are carried out by national authorities, including the Ministry of the Environment and Metsähallitus, with local authorities implementing restrictions. Protected status is indicated in official lists, on signage, and in public notices, and violations can carry penalties under applicable laws.

The term thus covers a wide range of protected cases across biodiversity and cultural heritage. It is used in conservation discourse, legal texts, and everyday communication to denote legal protection and accompanying restrictions, reflecting Finland’s emphasis on protecting both natural and cultural resources.

See also: Nature conservation act; Protected species; Biodiversity; Cultural heritage protection.