The National Forest Programme (NFP) of Finland is the cornerstone and strategic base of the Finnish forest policy. The NFP aims to ensure forest-based work and livelihoods, biodiversity and vitality of forests, and opportunities for recreation for all citizens. The programme was prepared as an open process between all stakeholders in forest issues. The cooperation continues in the implementation, follow-up and development of the NFP.

The Finnish Government approved the first NFP in 1999, and since 2000 it has been implemented as part of the Government Programme. The implementation of the NFP is coordinated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry with the help of the Forest Council and its Secretariat and Working Groups. The Forest Council is an advisory board which supports the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Different administrative sectors, forest industries, NGOs and expert organisations have their representatives in the Forest Council.

The revision of the NFP was started in autumn 2005 and was made according to the guidelines set out in the Government Programme of Prime Minister Vanhanen's Cabinet. The Government made a decision in principle on the new NFP, extending until 2015, in March 2008, together with the Forest Biodiversity Programme for Southern Finland (METSO) 2008-2016.

Further information:
Marja Kokkonen, Secretary-General of Finland's National Forest Programme, tel. +358 (0)9 160 52923
marja.kokkonen (at) mmm.fi