Stora Enso CEO Hans Sohlström described the environmental damage in Suomussalmi's Hukkajoki River as "really bad" after thousands of endangered freshwater pearl mussels (raakku) died due to logging machinery crossing the river repeatedly. On Monday, around 40 workers, including 30 from Stora Enso and the rest from Metsähallitus, were on-site addressing the damage.
In response, Stora Enso halted logging at environmentally sensitive sites across Finland, affecting several dozen locations. These suspensions will remain in place until logging plans and risk assessments are reviewed. The company has also initiated new environmental training for all involved in wood procurement, focusing on better compliance with environmental guidelines.
The Hukkajoki incident involved over 400 river crossings by logging machines, resulting in severe habitat damage. Despite being Stora Enso’s project with a contractor hired by the company, a violation of the recommended 50-meter buffer zone around the river appears to have occurred. The area involved was not certified under any sustainable forest management system, although Stora Enso had agreed with the landowner to follow PEFC certification standards.
Stora Enso pledged to take full responsibility for the damages, although the financial costs remain undetermined. Additionally, the company launched a review of its logging processes with both internal and external experts to prevent future incidents. Sohlström expressed hope that Hukkajoki was an isolated case.
The Finnish police are investigating the case as a severe environmental crime, while Stora Enso is conducting its internal investigation to determine what went wrong. Meanwhile, the company has committed to supporting the ongoing restoration efforts at Hukkajoki and is participating in the Life Revives mussel protection program alongside Metsähallitus, though specific financial contributions have not been disclosed.
