The decision reflects the significant reduction in environmental impacts achieved through long-term investments and technical improvements implemented at the site over several years. Following a comprehensive assessment, the authorities concluded that the site's operations no longer require an environmental permit.
"Continuous improvement is an important part of how we operate. Through targeted investments and close collaboration across the site, we have significantly reduced emissions, noise and wastewater impacts, while improving energy efficiency and environmental performance," says Ari Pöntinen, Interim Head of Corrugated Finland and Head of Business Unit Heinola at Stora Enso.
The Lahti site has systematically implemented measures to reduce its environmental footprint. Historically, the site operated under an open-ended environmental permit due to factors including environmental impacts regulated under the Neighbour Relations Act and its location within a groundwater area.
Investments deliver measurable environmental improvements
One of the most significant changes has been the replacement of fossil fuels in steam production. At the beginning of 2025, natural gas was replaced with electric steam boilers, reducing the mill's direct emissions by more than 70%.
Photo: Aerial view of the Stora Enso Lahti site.
The site has also made substantial investments to reduce noise levels in the surrounding environment. During 2024, a noise enclosure was installed around the shredder unit, the waste pipeline leading to Stena Recycling was insulated, and a silencer was added to the exhaust system of the electric boilers. Together, these measures have significantly reduced noise impacts.
In addition, wastewater quality has improved considerably. The introduction of an ultrafiltration system has substantially reduced copper concentrations in wastewater before discharge into the municipal sewer network.
These improvements support Stora Enso's commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and continuous operational development. The company will continue to focus on reducing environmental impacts, improving resource efficiency and advancing sustainable operations at the Lahti site.
