UPM also calls for a profound discussion on the ground rules related to sustainable forestry, the responsibilities of the different parties as well as stakeholder involvement models.
Ärjänsaari is a forest estate owned by UPM and managed according to the principles of sustainable forestry. In 2014 UPM prepared a complete management plan for the Ärjänsaari island covering all activities and taking into account the recreational values, landscape and biodiversity of the island. The plan was approved by the authorities in December 2014.
"UPM has involved its stakeholders during the whole planning process. Safeguarding the recreational values has been one important factor especially emphasised in the plan. Latest stakeholder event to discuss the plan was organised last week in Kajaani. Locally the main concerns expressed relate to the recreational values and the possibility of storm damages. Further the cultural values of the island came up in discussions. Additionally also ENGO's have expressed their concerns during past weeks," Sauli Brander, SVP Wood Sourcing and Forestry, says.
The island is part of the Natura 2000 network and its shore areas as well as the valuable natural habitat types in the inner of the island have been protected. The environmental authorities have stated that forestry operations in the inner parts of the island are allowed when ensuring the protection of certain natural habitats. The authorities have not seen any reason for further protection. The logging operations have taken place in the inner parts of the island.
