Finns more positive about forest protection

A survey has revealed a more positive attitude among Finns towards forest protection.

But while the Forest and Timber survey, commissioned by the Finnish Forest Association, showed an increased proportion of people wanting more forest protection (compared to previous surveys), 70% of responses acknowledged that forest management in regard to biodiversity protection had improved.

Only one-third of respondents were aware of the Metso programme, regarded as the most important forest protection scheme in Finland. But people displayed good knowledge of the level of forest protection – the media answer was 10%, with the correct answer being 9%.

For the first time, people were asked about their opinions on use of forest wood chips for bioenergy. Nearly eight out of ten thought that this use should be expanded.