Jurmo faces waste management crisis as visitor numbers surge in Finland

The island of Jurmo, located in the Turku archipelago, is facing a significant waste management challenge due to the increase in visitor numbers, which range from 30,000 to 50,000 annually. This influx brings a surge of toilet waste that the current facilities are struggling to handle. Local entrepreneur Tiina Johansson noted, “My own outdoor toilet needs to be emptied twice a week due to the volume of visitors.”

Jurmo is not alone in experiencing this issue, but the problem is particularly severe on this remote and rugged island, where waste decomposition is slow. The association Pidä Saaristo Siistinä ry, which manages composting toilets in the archipelago, has reported difficulties especially in areas with high boating traffic during the summer months. According to regional manager Katriina Murto, “In some locations, the capacity of toilets is under strain, as our facilities are the only public toilets available for all visitors, not just boaters.”

There have been discussions in Jurmo about potentially transporting waste off the island. However, no service provider has been willing to accept waste from these outdoor toilets. Johansson emphasized the need for sustainable infrastructure to accommodate year-round tourism. “Both Jurmo and Utö face the same problem, and we require functional amenities to support tourists throughout the year.”

Despite efforts over the years from the local community, PSS ry, and the John Nurminen Foundation, a viable solution has yet to be identified. Key challenges include funding and transportation capacity. The waste management company Lounais-Suomen Jätehuolto currently does not process toilet waste but is open to exploring options for managing sewage in the archipelago in the coming fall.