Plants and animals

In Finland there are naturally occurring plant and animal species and imported plants and domestic animals. Many different species of fish, game, berries and mushrooms exist in Finland. The country is heavily forested so that most of the flora and fauna are forest species.

Plants and domestic animals cultivated by Man are also present in our living environment. In Finland, for example, there is agriculture, reindeer husbandry and fish farming.

It is our responsibility to ensure that the plants and animals cultivated by Man do not pose a threat to our naturally occurring species. This is why there are restrictions on the import and export of plants and animals. Endangered species can be protected.

The Finnish Environment Institute monitors the state of the Baltic Sea and produces a wide range of environmental data about a number of things including its plants, animals and micro-organisms.

Legislation on the protection of animals is intended to protect animals from pain, suffering and torment. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry directs, manages and monitors this legislation to ensure it is observed. The Ministry also supervises large predator issues in Finland.

The Finnish Food Safety Authority, Evira takes care of combating animal diseases and research into diseased animals. It also gives advice to agriculture professionals in particular on issues associated with identifying and controlling plant pests and other pests.