Finns’ relationship to nature has strengthened

MDI conducted a Nature Relations Barometer survey for the Ministry of the Environment and the Finnish Environment Institute. The survey examined Finns’ relationship with nature, with the safeguarding of its diversity and how responsibilities should be divided between different parties (citizens, the state, municipal authorities, landowners).

The survey was conducted in June 2020 and was answered by a total of 1 013 people. As the survey was conducted during the corona pandemic it also asked about the effects of corona on peoples’ relationship to nature. 57% of respondents said they had increased their mobility in nature. The last time a similar survey was conducted was June 2018.

Nature is either ‘important’ or ‘very important’ to 80% of Finns. The most important nature areas for Finns are the green areas and parks near home. Generally speaking, people utilise these nature-based spaces to relax or exercise.