UNESCO/Toson-Khulstai Biosphere Reserve
North Karelian
General information
North Karelia Biosphere Reserve encompasses an incredibly rich blend of nature. It is home to approx. 2000 lakes let alone the massive stretch of forest covering approx. 70% of the region.
Detailed information
Key data
Year of nomination
1992
Country
Finland
Total population
21035
Area
Surface
790,745.00 ha
Location
Latitiude: 63.0064 - Longitude: 30.5277
Contact
Ecosystem-based network
EuroMAB
Ecological Characteristics
Magnificent landscapes such as “KOLI national Park; a national treasure that lies on the oldest bedrock in the world, is also found within the Biosphere Reserve. Besides nature, the BR also consists a distinctive rich Karelian culture solely experienced within the region.North Karelia region consists of a massive stretch of forest land which covers approximately 70 % of the region. It is also home to approximaterly 2,200 lakes. Lake Pielinen, one of the lakes within the Biosphere Reserve, is the fourth largest in Finland.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
North Karelia biosphere reserve consists - officially - Lieksa city, Ilomantsi municipality and Joensuu city Tuupovaara district. Biosphere reserve activities occur in the whole North Karelian province.Major activities around the region (both commercial and private) rely on or involve nature and natural resources.The Biosphere Reserve’s sustainable development model combines a regional network of sustainablity projects, an interdisciplinary research and extensive local-oriented co-operation.