FRESHABIT

FreshHabit LIFE IP was among the first tranche of so-called ‘integrated projects’, introduced more than a decade ago, which bring together multiple stakeholders and funders across different regions. In Finland, this meant integrating freshwater projects in eight different target areas stretching over a 1,000 km from Naamijoki in the far north to Kiskonjoki on the Baltic coast.  Its results have been truly impressive: 40 ha of newly built wetlands; 870 ha of restored peatlands; 25 km of restored rivers; 13,300 new stocks of endangered freshwater mussels; and 185 ha of new conservation areas.  

Public engagement and support was also essential to the success of the project. FreshHabit LIFE IP organised five volunteer camps which attracted more than 100 participants, each delivering 40 days of voluntary work. There were also 150 ‘nature school days’ which were attended by around 3,000 people interested in learning more about nature and the environment in Finland. 

Several endangered species have also benefitted, including the once-plentiful freshwater pearl mussels.  According to the project’s Layman’s Report, ‘In the rivers of southern Finland, there were mostly old freshwater pearl mussels that are in a poor condition and do not have the strength to reproduce. The River Ähtävänjoki freshwater pearl mussels have spent a successful romantic spa break at the Konnevesi research station and, under careful supervision, the first test tube babies have been returned to their home river to grow.’ Sea trout (which spawn in freshwater rivers), salmon, roach and birds such as gulls and waders are also making a comeback. 

FreshHabit LIFE IP has also developed new methods and models which are already being adopted elsewhere in the EU, with a focus on Natura 2000 sites. This LIFE project won the LIFE Special Award at the LIFE Awards 2024.