The structure and functioning of forest ecosystems
Functioning of forest ecosystems and use of forest resources in changing climate (MIL)
duration: 2007-2011
director: Elina Vapaavuori
The programme studies extensively how climate change can be observed in the forests. It also examines the biological impacts of climate change on the functioning of trees and the forest ecosystem and their ability to adapt to the changing climate. Info rmation is produced on the impacts of climate change, the thriving of tree species, the risks of forest pests, and the factors related to forest land. Another target is to outline the significance of the forest sector in climate issues. Moreover, reports are drawn up for the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Further information about the research programme 
Production forestry in drained peatlands (SUM)
duration: 2008-2010
director: Jukka Laine
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| Photo: Metla/Erkki Oksanen |
The objective of the research programme is to generate information for use in forestry, and from that platform to develop management guidelines forest production, harvesting, forest regeneration and environmental effects to meet the practical needs of peatland forestry. Efforts are made to examine the ecological and economic approaches concurrently. Subjects related to the study include the impacts of production forestry on watercourses and water protection, new solutions for the treatment of forests on drained peatlands and harvesting of timber, and the regeneration of peatland forests.