City of Mariehamn in Åland wins 2022 Nordic Council Environment Prize

In the area of Nabben, the City of Mariehamn has created a multifunctional wetland close to the city that contributes to the improvement of the water quality in the Baltic Sea, increases biodiversity, and is used as a recreational area by the city’s residents. The theme for this year’s environment prize is: Nature-based solutions – a versatile response to the major environmental challenges facing society.

The Adjudication Committee wrote: “Thanks to its versatility, this year’s winner cleans the aquatic environment and benefits plant and animal life. In addition, the initiative aims to ensure climate adaptation in the urban environment. With its proximity and easy access to animals and nature as well as the educational design, this year’s winner fosters people’s social wellbeing while improving their knowledge and awareness of nature.”

The City of Mariehamn accepted the prize at the Nordic Council’s awards ceremony at Helsinki’s Musikhuset.  A total of six projects were nominated for the prize. Åland last won the Nordic Council Environment Prize in 1999.