DRINK Finland
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THE STORY OF FINLAND’S LAKES IS WORTH TELLING “Päijänne is one of the most studied lakes in the world. Various parties have learned a lot over the last 30 years. Thanks to the Päijänne tunnel, the lake is the most important source of water in Southern Finland, and the protection of water resources has allowed life in Central Finland to continue as vibrantly as ever. A lot of money has been invested in treatment plants, and the municipal residents and users of industrial products have agreed to pay the costs. Much has been achieved in controlling industrial emissions, not only by external purification but also by developing production methods. The evaporation and incineration plants for sulphite spent liquor (Äänekoski 1956 and Jämsänkoski 1969) were big events for Päijänne at the time. A large plant (such as Lievestuore) is difficult to repair, and the best results are achieved by renovating the entire production process. The major investments made in recent years to the plants in the Äänekoski and Jämsä regions have also made it possible to protect water bodies on a new basis. As a result of intense publicity, nature conservation has become a factor that now even directs the markets and provides a competitive edge to factories that take care of everything properly.” Kari Hokkanen: ’Päijänteen vesiensuojelu’ (protection of waters in Lake Päijänne) in a publication by Hakkari L. and Saukkonen S. (edit.): Päijänne, suomalainen suur järvi (Päijänne, a great lake in Finland), Gummerus Kirjapaino Oy, Jyväskylä 1998 The salvation of Finland’s badly polluted lakes and sea areas is a story worth telling – especially because there are never too many good news stories about the environment. After the record-hot summer of 2010, it may sound selfevident that one can dip into the nearest river bend, sea shore or lake to cool off. However, this would not be the case if the task of cleaning badly polluted water bodies had not been undertaken. The current good state of waters was achieved through strict regulations. The deteriorating condition of water bodies was clear for everyone to see in the late 1960s. Fortunately, people understood that clean water is a resource we cannot afford to lose. Awareness increased gradually, and know-how was acquired from abroad. The practical enforcement of the Water Act began in 1962, and Finland set out on its journey from being a developing country in water protection to being a forerunner of the future. Early on, the water