The use of peatlands in rural economic activities, such as forestry, agriculture, energy production and other uses of peat, is undergoing a significant transformation in Finland. In order to mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity, increasing demands are being placed on the way peatlands are managed. These demands necessitate the renewal and, in some cases, the restriction of current land use practices. The need for change affects entire value chains, extending from peatlands to further processing and all the way to consumers.

The sustainable and fair regeneration of peatland use is a major challenge that must be tackled in co-operation with several actors. A narrow-minded approach and the promotion of a single goal for peatland use do not lead to fruitful solutions. That is why it is essential to bring together all relevant knowledge and expertise. In a broad and inclusive network, different perspectives emerge and the information accumulates. In this way, practical solutions that are viable and fair can be found and developed.

The Competence Cluster for the Sustainable Use of Peatlands was established as an initiative of South and Central Ostrobothnian regions in 2023 in Finland. Today, the activities of the cluster are nationwide. Both regional and national Finnish organizations and companies whose activities are related to the use of peatlands can join the cluster.

What does the competence cluster do?

The aim of the competence cluster is to strengthen expertise, cooperation and effectiveness in the sustainable use of peatlands. The cluster:

• Produces and distributes up-to-date information on the sustainable use of peatlands
• Promotes cooperation and networking between actors
• Combines research and practical solutions
• Strengthens expertise and inclusion at the local level

A Comprehensive approach to peatland use

The cluster addresses all forms of peatland use, including for example:

• Forestry
• Agriculture
• Peat production
• After-use and land restoration
• Protection
• Recreation and tourism

The focus is on perspectives and solutions that take into account the economic, ecological, social, and cultural dimensions of sustainability.

From collaboration to practice – multi-optimized solutions

In cooperation with operators and landowners, the cluster develops multi-optimised, practical solutions for the sustainable use of peatlands. This contributes to the emergence and strengthening of the perceived experience of justice in the green transition.