Roadmaps for benchmarking the measures that sustain biodiversity and livelihoods 

We developed a biodiversity roadmap for Finnish agriculture and forestry in multidisciplinary collaboration. The research-based roadmaps aim to integrate biodiversity conservation and restoration with profitable food and timber production. 

Biodiversity is essential to human wellbeing. Biological diversity enables field and forest ecosystems to adapt to a changing environment. Biodiversity provides us with food, raw materials, health, and welfare. 

Guidelines for strengthening biodiversity through scenarios 

The farming and crop production are in constant and rapid change due to agricultural policy, water protection, and climate actions. Scenarios were used to examine what kind of actions are required to strengthen biodiversity in agricultural environments. Based on the roadmap work, it is possible to foster biodiversity in domestic food production if determined actions are implemented and sufficient resources secured. 

The management of commercial forests plays a key role in safeguarding biodiversity as most Finnish forests are used for wood production. Researchers assessed the effects of nature management on timber production and the profitability of forestry in different biodiversity scenarios. The nature management measures can conserve important ecological features in forests, but the protected areas are the most efficient in safeguarding endangered species. In addition, the interest of agricultural producers and forest owners in biodiversity conservation was studied. 

Actors are in a key position in the implementation of roadmaps 

MTK and SLC are responsible for the implementation of the biodiversity roadmap. The organizations have produced advisory material to encourage farmers and forest owners to make changes to protect and restore biodiversity. Local associations are developing nature-related services and landowners are designing practical measures. 

”The biodiversity roadmap has been helpful in advisory work, and it has increased the acceptance of biodiversity measures among farmers." Aleksis Kyrö, Board Member of MTK and farmer.