Saving the Archipelago Sea is not merely environmental protection, but an essential part of the renewal of Finnish agriculture, food security, and security of supply. Courage is needed to direct EU and national support policies toward effectiveness, circular economy, and efficient nutrient retention. The investment will pay for itself through improved soil fertility, a cleaner sea, more sustainable agriculture, and stronger self-sufficiency.
The EU financial framework for 2028–2034 is decisive. The Commission’s draft proposal increases Member States’ freedom to allocate agricultural and regional development funding, while new needs, such as defense, narrow traditional support targets. In the negotiations, Finland must ensure that the profitability and self-sufficiency of food production do not weaken. Support funds must go to active farmers and guide agriculture in an effective, sustainable direction.
Self-sufficiency and sustainability can be strengthened by replacing mineral fertilizers with organic alternatives, improving nutrient cycling, and accelerating the transition to low- and zero-emission ammonia solutions. For example, the green ammonia production planned for Naantali would reduce dependence on imported fertilizers and strengthen security of supply. Smaller-scale solutions for nutrient cycling have been developed directly on farms.
Varsinais-Suomi has exceptional potential to serve as a development platform for nutrient cycling and environmental measures. In the region, the value of agricultural production relative to subsidies is among the highest in the country, and willingness to invest is strong. At the same time, the region’s fields are a key part of reducing nutrient loading in the Baltic Sea: the Archipelago Sea remains in the worst condition of our sea areas.
It is essential that the Archipelago Sea program, which has continued for two electoral terms, is reflected in Finland’s EU partnership plan for 2028–2034. At its core must be the Archipelago Sea strategic special area, where environmental subsidies can be increased and cost-effectively targeted to the most polluting field plots. Farmers are ready to do more, but current funding is not sufficiently effective.
The Commission’s new funding model gives Finland more decision-making power than before in agricultural policy planning. The national plan will be prepared by summer 2027, within the next 1.5 years. The plan must direct resources to where willingness to invest, productivity, and environmental benefits are greatest. The Archipelago Sea strategic special area is a key part of this overall framework.
Malla Rannikko-Laine
Director of Advocacy, Regional Council of Southwest Finland
Pekka Salminen
Head of Environmental Unit, Southwest Finland Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment
Karoliina Hidén
Director of Relations, City of Turku
The article was originally published in Maaseudun Tulevaisuus on 12 February 2026.
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