Environment - thisisFINLAND

University of Helsinki research: Prehistoric people may have “heard” rock paintings talking

A number of prehistoric (5000–1500 BCE) rock paintings exist in Finland, mostly in the southeastern part of the country. Surprisingly, the acoustics of some sites may have made them important to the hunter-gatherers of the time.

Life & society Sustainability

Good news: Finland tops the Good Country Index

Out of 174 countries, Finland contributes the most to the common good of humanity relative to its size, according to a new study.

Business & innovation Sustainability

How Finnish innovations are helping make the maritime industry more sustainable

In order to attain net-zero goals, it’s essential to increase sustainability in the ocean shipping sector. We hear about the progress of two Finnish companies: Norsepower, founded in 2012, and Wärtsilä, which started way back in 1834.

179,584

Number of islands in Finland

Source: Eupedia

Life & society Sustainability

On a roll: Helsinki urban planning continues to expand bike path network

The Finnish capital places high on the growing list of enlightened world capitals that embrace cycling as an urban planning priority. Broad political agreement is a factor in the long-running development of its bike path system.

Business & innovation Sustainability

From bottles to molecules, Finland continues to reshape its plastic recycling

Finland’s public and private sectors are stepping up to the recycling challenge with a roadmap and an array of innovations.

75%

of Finnish land area is forest

Source: Natural Resources Institute Finland

Life & society Nature

How “every person’s right” in Finland evolved over more than a century

More than 110 years ago in eastern Finland, Ilma Lindgren fought for her right to pick lingonberries on land she did not own. Her court case provided a legal precedent, helping ensure that everyone may enjoy nature, regardless of who owns the terrain.

Life & society Nature

Spending an idyllic week in a Finnish national park, on a shepherding holiday

In several of Finland’s national parks, grazing sheep and cows help maintain traditional landscapes. Holiday-goers can enjoy a week surrounded by natural beauty while looking after the animals.

Business & innovation Sustainability

Concrete change for the better: “Green cement” is bubbling in Finland

Concrete is a major source of emissions, but Finnish firms and researchers are creating carbon-negative alternatives to flip it from a climate hazard to a positive solution.