Sweden Expands Nature Reserves by Over 200 Areas in 2024
Sweden dramatically increases its nature reserves in 2024 by over 206,000 hectares.
Key Points
- • Sweden's nature reserves increased by nearly 206,000 hectares in 2024.
- • Over 200 new nature reserve areas were established.
- • 30% of the newly added area overlaps with already protected areas.
- • The largest new nature reserve is Nåara/Härbergsdalen in Jämtlands län.
In 2024, Sweden achieved a remarkable expansion of its nature reserves, adding nearly 206,000 hectares of protected land, equivalent to a size larger than Öland. The establishment of over 200 new nature reserve areas was a significant component of this growth, which now sees 15% of Sweden's total area formally protected.
Of note, approximately 30% of the newly added area overlaps with existing protected zones, leading to a net increase of about 148,000 hectares, primarily comprising forest and low mountain forest types. According to Karin Hedeklint from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), this growth emphasizes the country's commitment to preserving its natural landscapes.
The largest newly designated nature reserve, Nåara/Härbergsdalen, is situated in Strömsund municipality in Jämtlands län, while the second largest, Satsfjället, can be found in Vilhelmina municipality, Västerbottens län. More than 60% of the newly protected lands consist of forests and low mountain areas, alongside open wetlands and alpine tundra, underscoring the diverse ecosystems being preserved as a result of these efforts.
This expansion reflects a broader trend towards environmental conservation in Sweden, ensuring sustainable management of its natural resources and wildlife.