Forest sector emissions can be mitigated by avoiding clear-cutting and related drainage activities

About one-quarter of Finland’s forest area consists of peatland forests, which are important for forestry, forest biodiversity, and water bodies. In 2024, together with the Finnish Environment Institute, we published a policy brief promoting the use of continuous cover forestry (CCF) to reduce climate and water impacts from forestry. 

The recommendation, based on two research projects, proposes that forest drainage should require permits in Finland and that forestry subsidies should be reformed to encourage the generation of environmental benefits.

Research shows that water pollution caused by forestry can be reduced by favoring continuous cover forestry in both mineral soils and drained peatlands. Shifting to CCF could cut nitrogen and phosphorus runoff by about half compared to traditional rotation forestry.

Clear-cutting on drained peatlands has been found to cause CO₂ emissions of up to 30 tons per hectare per year. In addition, significant nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions are released from the soil. CCF reduces the need for ditch maintenance, and when ditches grow over, methane emissions are nearly eliminated.

Advisory organizations, forestry professionals, and forest owners play a key role in translating research into practice. Achieving sustainable forestry that protects climate and water resources requires increased expertise and cooperation.