North Karelia
North Karelia Biosphere Reserve encompasses a rich natural landscape. It is home to over 2,000 lakes, as well as extensive forests that cover about 70 per cent of the region.
Ecological Characteristics
Magnificent landscapes include Koli National Park, a national treasure set on some of the oldest bedrock in the world. Forests cover roughly 70 per cent of North Karelia, and there are approximately 2,200 lakes. Lake Pielinen, one of the lakes within the biosphere reserve, is the fourth largest in Finland.
Socio-Economics Characteristics
The biosphere reserve officially comprises the city of Lieksa, the municipality of Ilomantsi, and the Tuupovaara district of the city of Joensuu. Alongside its nature, the biosphere reserve includes a distinctive Karelian culture specific to the region. Activities inspired by the biosphere reserve take place across the wider North Karelia region. Major activities in 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 sustainability projects, interdisciplinary research and extensive locally oriented co-operation.
Key Data
Country: Finland
Area: Approx. 7,907 km²
Population: Approx. 21,035 inhabitants