Destruction of endangered mussels leads to environmental inquiry in Hukkajoki, Finland

The destruction of endangered freshwater mussels, known as raakku, at Hukkajoki has been described as exceptionally severe by Finland’s Minister of Environment and Climate, Kai Mykkänen, during a recent broadcast. “Anyone can see from the images that the stream cannot withstand such an event,” he stated.

The incident involved a forest machine operator who is believed to have destroyed thousands of these vulnerable mussels at Stora Enso’s logging site in Kainuu, Hukkajoki. The damage was uncovered last week, prompting police to investigate the case as a potential severe environmental crime.

In response, Stora Enso has apologized and halted logging in areas with protective restrictions until relevant guidelines are reassessed. When questioned about his own responsibility as the minister in charge of environmental protection, Mykkänen announced plans to initiate an inquiry into potential measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. This may include heightened penalties or an expanded definition of environmental damage.

Furthermore, Mykkänen expressed intentions to convene the leadership of major timber buyers to discuss improving industry practices. Jenni Pitko, chair of the Parliament’s Environment Committee, stressed the need for a review of legislation concerning environmental protection. She noted that in the Hukkajoki case, recommendations for protective buffer zones were not followed.

Mykkänen mentioned the possibility of reviewing the addition of buffer zones into law, acknowledging the complexity of addressing the needs of various endangered species. He cautioned that if every species’ requirements were to be examined, the legislation could become overly lengthy. However, he assured that a swift public commitment from forestry companies could significantly reduce the risk of further destruction of mussels in protective areas.