Sofia Virta: Natural forests end up in pulp mills due to weak protection – change is urgent

Greenpeace has revealed today that forest company UPM sourced wood from logging in the disputed Kaupinvaara natural forest in Kainuu, later delivered to the company’s Pietarsaari pulp mill. UPM has now confirmed the deliveries.

Kaupinvaara represents rare old-growth forest in Finland – areas that have remained largely untouched by logging. The felling was carried out by state-owned Metsähallitus in June. The discovery was made not through official monitoring but by activists tracking the timber’s route.

According to Green Party chairperson Sofia Virta, the case illustrates the consequences of failed promises and weak environmental policy.

“Prime Minister Orpo pledged to protect state-owned old-growth forests but now intends to safeguard only a minimal share. The fact that valuable natural forest ended up in a pulp mill proves protection must be strengthened,” she says.

Virta criticizes the government’s newly adopted criteria for old-growth protection as a “historic betrayal of nature,” arguing they ignore scientific advice. She also highlights corporate responsibility, pointing out that UPM’s promise not to use natural forests has been broken.

“Voluntary measures are clearly not enough. Legal obligations are needed, and companies must be held accountable,” she stresses.

Virta calls for more resources for monitoring and urges the government to meet EU obligations to protect old-growth and natural forests.

“It is now up to Prime Minister Orpo and Minister Sari Multala to ensure the destruction of natural forests comes to an end,” she concludes.