The Finnish Environment Institute has started cooperation negotiations that could lead to up to 80 dismissals. The government research center currently employs about 700 people across Finland.
Financial pressures are forcing the institute to reduce its workforce significantly. Three main factors are driving the budget cuts: government productivity program reductions, ending special funding from previous administrations, and declining external financing.
Total funding will drop 17 percent by 2028 compared to current levels. The institute needs to save 13.1 million euros to balance its budget.
How will the cuts happen? The institute plans to reduce staff and office costs, its largest expense categories. Up to 25 employees may transition to part-time work. The organization will also leave vacant positions unfilled when people retire or resign.
Temporary project-based contracts will decrease in coming years. The institute will also share office spaces with other government agencies at all locations.
These cuts reflect broader austerity measures affecting Finnish public sector research. Environmental monitoring and research capacity may face challenges with reduced staffing levels.
The Finnish Environment Institute conducts research and monitoring on environmental issues affecting the entire Nordic region. Its work includes climate change studies, water quality assessments, and biodiversity conservation.