According to Ali Harlin, a research professor at the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, the availability of wood as a raw material for industry is already a problem in Finland. Harlin attributes this issue to the influence of the Kremlin. He states that Finland has drifted into a situation where there is a significant shortage of wood, particularly in southeast Finland. This shortage has already had an impact on the industrial sector, with the Sunila pulp mill in Kotka being the first victim. In early September, Finnish forestry products firm Stora Enso announced the closure of the mill.
The closure of the Sunila pulp mill has raised concerns about the future of the Finnish wood industry. The mill has been in operation for over 80 years and has played a significant role in the local economy. Its closure will result in the loss of hundreds of jobs and will have a ripple effect on the surrounding communities.
The shortage of wood in Finland is not a new issue. The country has been heavily reliant on its forests for centuries, but in recent years, the demand for wood has outpaced the supply. This has been exacerbated by factors such as increased logging restrictions and a decline in the availability of suitable land for forestry.
The influence of the Kremlin on Finland’s wood shortage is a controversial topic. Some experts believe that Russia, which is Finland’s largest supplier of wood, has been limiting its exports in order to exert pressure on the Finnish government. Others argue that the shortage is simply a result of mismanagement and a failure to invest in sustainable forestry practices.
Regardless of the cause, the wood shortage has had far-reaching consequences. Industries that rely on wood as a raw material, such as the construction and furniture sectors, have been hit hard. Prices have skyrocketed, making it difficult for businesses to remain competitive. This has resulted in job losses and a decline in economic growth.
The closure of the Sunila pulp mill is a stark reminder of the challenges facing the Finnish wood industry. It serves as a wake-up call for the government and industry leaders to take action. Steps need to be taken to increase the supply of wood, whether through sustainable forestry practices or by diversifying sources of raw materials. Additionally, investments in research and development are needed to find alternative materials that can be used as substitutes for wood.
In conclusion, the wood shortage in Finland is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. The closure of the Sunila pulp mill highlights the impact of this shortage on the industrial sector and the local economy. It is imperative for the government and industry leaders to work together to find solutions that will ensure the long-term sustainability of the wood industry in Finland.
