In a landmark moment, the first-ever Finnish Urban Nature Forum was held on 11 September 2024, uniting the leaders of Finland’s 10 largest cities in the fight against biodiversity loss. During the forum, these city leaders made history by committing to concrete, measurable actions to reverse the decline of nature, setting an inspiring example for cities around the world.
“With this commitment, Finnish cities are making history in addressing the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. By taking clear, tangible steps to protect and restore nature, we are demonstrating the leadership that is urgently needed on a global scale. Together, we are establishing a new standard for cities everywhere”, said Minna Arve, Mayor of Turku, and First Vice President of ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability.
The Urban Nature Forum brought together a diverse group of decision-makers and experts from municipalities, businesses, and NGOs. The discussions focused on harmonising urban development with nature conservation and emphasising the essential connection between urban biodiversity and human well-being—a relationship that is becoming increasingly crucial as cities grow.
Turku’s participation was notable due to its efforts to stop biodiversity loss locally, including the pioneering Skanssi Biodiversity Park, Europe’s first of its kind. Unlike traditional conservation areas, the park not only protects rare species but actively promotes biodiversity, enriching Turku’s natural environment and providing a place for residents to learn and enjoy nature.
“Establishing Europe’s first biodiversity park in Turku is a major step toward our environmental goals and a clear sign of our commitment to impactful action against biodiversity loss. This project sets a benchmark for cities across Finland and beyond”, Arve added.
The biodiversity park supports Turku’s goal to become a leading nature city by 2030 and aligns with the city’s Biodiversity Programme (LUMO) 2023–29, which outlines 86 concrete measures aimed at boosting biodiversity and fostering a more sustainable, livable urban environment.
The state of nature, both in Finland and globally, is deteriorating at an alarming rate. Finland's forests alone are home to 833 endangered species, highlighting the urgent need for decisive action. Given that cities consume 75% of natural resources and contribute up to 80% of climate emissions, urban areas must play a critical role in reversing these trends.
At the forum's conclusion, the leaders of Helsinki, Espoo, Tampere, Vantaa, Oulu, Turku, Jyväskylä, Kuopio, Lahti, and Pori signed a groundbreaking declaration to halt biodiversity loss and strengthen the role of nature in promoting human health, economic resilience, and urban vitality.
With this historic declaration, Finland’s cities are not only securing a more sustainable future for their citizens but also providing a powerful blueprint for how urban centres worldwide can lead the charge in restoring and protecting biodiversity.
Read the statement from the Mayors of the ten largest Finnish cities.
Follow the 10th European Conference on Sustainable Cities and Towns in Aalborg (Denmark) where Finnish leaders will take an active role.