The Finnish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry announced a package of measures on Friday aimed at boosting forest growth and strengthening carbon sinks. The initiative supports Finland’s statutory goal of reaching carbon neutrality by 2035.

The policy announcement followed internal disagreements within the coalition government over EU climate targets. Teemu Keskisarja, deputy chair of the Finns Party, said his party would not support European emissions goals, citing concerns about job losses in forestry.

In contrast, Sari Multala, Minister of Climate and Environment from the National Coalition Party, confirmed Finland’s support for the EU plan earlier in the week.

The new forestry strategy includes expanded fertilisation efforts and afforestation incentives. Forests will receive targeted support to improve growth and resilience, with measures designed to increase the amount of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere.

The ministry, led by Sari Essayah, chair of the Christian Democrats, said the steps would aid the implementation of Finland’s Climate Act and the National Forest Strategy. That strategy, first approved in 2015, outlines objectives for forest-related industries and land use through 2025.

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