Concerns raised over eutrophication of Lake Inari linked to Mellanaava facility in Finland

Environmental group Inarin Luonnonystävät ry has expressed concerns about the increasing eutrophication of Lake Inari, attributing the problem to the Mellanaava wastewater treatment facility. According to the group’s chairman, Ilkka Roininen, the lake faces threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and littering. While climate change and biodiversity loss are global issues, local action can address pollution and littering. Roininen points to visible signs of eutrophication along the Ivalojoki River and in Jokisuunselkä, and he believes the wastewater treatment facility is a significant contributor.

However, Paulus Lepistö, CEO of Inarin Lapin Vesi oy, insists that there is no cause for concern regarding the Mellanaava plant’s operations. He highlights that new cottages in sparsely populated areas pose a greater risk, generating more wastewater than the entire Mellanaava facility. According to Lepistö, the facility effectively removes an average of 99% of phosphorus and almost all biological and solid waste from incoming wastewater.

Markku Ahonen, a fish biologist from Ivalo, supports Lepistö’s view, stating that the treatment facility’s impacts are localized and insignificant compared to the larger volume of Lake Inari’s waters.

Amid these challenges, tourism is booming in the region, generating nearly two million euros in tax revenue annually. With a focus on sustainable tourism, local stakeholders are exploring methods to preserve the area’s natural beauty while accommodating visitors. However, the growing number of tourists poses protection pressures that conflict with local livelihoods, including reindeer herding and fishing. While calls for the establishment of a national park have been made, the municipality’s leadership is hesitant, emphasizing sustainable development without the need for a national park designation.