Finland achieves record number of Green Flag Awards for parks nationwide

Finland has reached a record number of internationally recognized parks that are exceptionally well-maintained and managed. An international jury awarded parks across Finland with the prestigious Green Flag Award today. A total of 21 parks have received this honor, three of which are newly recognized locations.

For the first time, the Green Flag Award was presented to Fjällbo Park in Tuusula, Ahlman Edu campus in Tampere, and Myllyranta Park in Lempäälä. These new green areas impressed the judges with their diverse activities and rich vegetation. Additionally, the parks were praised for initiatives that promote biodiversity and the commitment of the maintenance staff to upholding high standards.

Kotka, known for its parks, continues to lead in the number of Green Flags awarded. The recognition remains for Jokipuisto, Sapokka Water Park, Fuksinpuisto, Sibelius Park, and Katariina Maritime Park.

In Kymenlaakso, the Harjun Learning Center has successfully renewed its Green Flag designation from last year. Over the coming years, the institution will develop the Lampipuisto area as part of a training program in the green sector. Plans are also in place to create an ecological learning environment featuring edible plants and to transform lawns into meadows.

The Green Flag Award is managed internationally by the UK charity Keep Britain Tidy, while in Finland, it is overseen by the Finnish Green Environmental Association. Since 2016, parks in Finland have been honored, with the first award granted to the park at Tampere University of Applied Sciences’ Lepaa campus. Finnish parks have received accolades mainly for their quality maintenance, diverse plant life, and efforts to enhance the well-being of local users.