CLIMATE ACTION IN FINLAND
Hesburger has been involved in climate action projects in three locations in Finland: Kankaanpää (Satakunta), Reisjärvi (Northern Ostrobothnia) and Rautalampi (Northern Savonia).
- Kankaanpää: more than 16,000 seedlings planted in 2026
- Rautalampi: more than 10,000 seedlings planted in 2025
- Reisjärvi: more than 15,000 seedlings planted in 2023
Kankaanpää
The Kankaanpää site consists of former peatland agricultural soil. In spring 2026, 710 pine seedlings, 710 spruce seedlings and 202 black alder seedlings were planted per hectare.
The total area covers 12.5 hectares, of which 10.9 hectares is agricultural land designated for planting. A one-hectare wetland is also located on the site. It was left untouched to support and enhance local biodiversity.
The plantings will be monitored during the first two years, and damaged seedlings will be replaced if significant damage occurs. The first early-stage forest management operation will be carried out approximately 5–7 years after planting.
Naturally regenerated deciduous trees, such as birch, rowan and alder, as well as smaller amounts of willow, will be retained to support biodiversity.
Rautalampi
The Rautalampi site consists of former mineral-soil agricultural land that is being converted from agricultural use into forest. The area had been used for growing grass for several years.
In spring 2025, the land was prepared for the change in land use and for planting tree seedlings. The preparatory work included removing the grass vegetation, preparing the soil for planting and fertilising the area.
More than 10,000 seedlings were planted in the area in 2025.
Reisjärvi
The Reisjärvi site consists of former agricultural land with deep peat soil that is being converted from agricultural use into forest.
In autumn 2023, the area was prepared for planting, and approximately 1,000 pine seedlings and 1,000 spruce seedlings were planted per hectare.
The growth of the seedlings and the development of the surrounding vegetation are monitored regularly. Vegetation that may hinder the growth of the seedlings is removed when necessary. The first early-stage forest management operation will be carried out approximately 5–7 years after planting.
Naturally regenerated deciduous trees will be retained to support biodiversity in the area.
A 99-YEAR COMMITMENT
A long-term forest management plan with a minimum 99-year commitment is implemented in line with climate forestry recommendations. Management measures are chosen to support the optimal climate impact pathway, except in cases of forest damage or risk prevention. The plan also supports biodiversity protection. The project continuously incorporates the latest research on forest carbon sequestration and biodiversity, and the management plan is updated accordingly.