Ilmatar’s responsibility work includes concrete actions for the benefit of nature. In June, employees took part in a volunteer day in Nuuksio National Park, Espoo, where a motivated team dug up invasive garden lupines by the root on a site designated by the Finnish Forest Administration. Originally introduced as an ornamental plant, the garden lupine has spread rapidly and now threatens Finland’s native flora and biodiversity. The site, which is designated for aerial species, is rich in rare pyramidal bugle, whose habitat is invaded by lupine.
A Rapidly Spreading Invasive Species Threatens the Ecosystem
An invasive alien species is one that has spread to a new area as a result of human activity. EU legislation allows member states to designate invasive species of national significance. Finland has so far listed 16 species, eight species groups, and one hybrid on its national list.
The garden lupine, which arrived in Finland from North America over a century ago, became popular for its striking appearance and easy maintenance. However, its rapid propagation via seeds has allowed it to escape gardens and spread to roadsides, railways, meadows and wastelands.
This aggressive spread has harmful effects on ecosystems. The plant takes over large areas, degrades traditional biotopes, and displaces native meadow species that are vital for pollinators and endangered insects. That’s why it is actively combated in many places – including now by Ilmatar’s helping hands.
Making a Tangible Impact
Environmental responsibility is a key part of Ilmatar’s sustainability work.
“In 2024, we strengthened our positive climate impact – meaning the climate benefits of our renewable energy production now outweigh the emissions we cause,” says Anna-Maria Palmroos, CLO and CHRO at Ilmatar.
In addition to producing renewable energy, the company also wants to leave a positive handprint when it comes to biodiversity. The lupine weeding day gave volunteers a chance to do good for nature during working hours.
“I joined the volunteer day because I wanted to do something truly meaningful – hands-on. Pulling up lupines was a concrete and motivating way to combine environmental responsibility with team spirit,” says project developer Inka Hirvonen.
“It’s great to see that our team can be part of a bigger solution. Biodiversity doesn’t take care of itself – it needs us all. This was a chance to show that responsibility also means boots-on-the-ground action, where results are visible in the landscape and species,” adds land use coordinator Roosa Rantanen.
During the day, participants learned that lupines have deep, powerful root systems – and that muscle power and proper tools make all the difference. We thank the Finnish Forest Administration for providing the equipment. The forest area assigned to us – as well as a roadside stretch we cleared on our own initiative – were noticeably tidier after several hours of work. Still, much remains to be done – by us and by others.
We challenge other companies to join the fight against lupines!
