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Sweden Today

Swedish news in English

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Sweden's Nature Reserves Face Funding Crisis

Published: 2024-07-27

Sweden's national parks and nature reserves are facing a severe funding crisis, with government budget cuts leading to a 70% reduction in maintenance support.

This has forced local authorities, such as the Västkuststiftelsen and the Länsstyrelsen in Värmland, to make difficult decisions, including removing firewood from grill areas, which increases the risk of damage to protected trees.

The Kullaberg nature reserve, a popular destination for over 600,000 visitors annually, has been particularly hard hit, relying on donations and volunteer support to maintain its facilities.

Critics, including the Naturskyddsföreningen, are urging the government to take nature conservation seriously, as the current funding levels threaten the integrity of these vital ecosystems.

Without adequate resources, Sweden's natural heritage risks becoming neglected and overrun with waste, undermining the very purpose of these protected areas.