This is our first REC newsletter, a new way for us to share the insights we think are most important for understanding ecological change in Finland and beyond. The past year has been an exciting and productive one at the Research Centre for Ecological Change. Our research has revealed not only how ecosystems change, but why they do so. For example, how has climate tolerance of natural communities in Finland changed over the past decades? What are the mechanisms that underpin a positive relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem stability? Read our latest research to find out!
Forests are a hot topic in Finland. However, they are too often viewed through an overly simplified lens that focuses only on tree growth or carbon dynamics. In reality, Finnish forests are home to more than half of our species and provide a wide range of tightly interconnected ecosystem services. In 2023, we launched the most comprehensive forest biodiversity field campaign to date—continuing through 2026—visiting 180 forest sites with 25 researchers to assess how multiple dimensions of biodiversity, and the ecosystem functions they support, respond to forestry practices. Stay tuned!
Systematic biodiversity monitoring is irreplaceable for understanding how and why biodiversity is changing, and for identifying effective ways to halt ongoing, human-driven loss. Over the past year, we have taken a critical look at Finland’s biodiversity monitoring efforts to identify both key strengths and areas for development, as summarised in our recent policy brief. We remain strong advocates for safeguarding and strengthening this essential resource for science and policy.
People are at the heart of science, and one of our core missions is to train the next generation of experts in ecology and global change. I couldn’t be happier that our postdoctoral researchers have moved on to exciting new positions, carrying with them the expertise and perspectives developed at REC! I am also delighted to note that all REC group leaders are now full professors at the University of Helsinki, providing a stable foundation for our future. We also look forward to welcoming new members to REC in the coming months, further strengthening our research community.
Thank you for being part of the REC community. We warmly thank our partners for their commitment and look forward to another year of impactful science.
Finally, please mark your calendars: REC invites you to celebrate the Day of Biological Diversity on 22th May at the Science Corner, where we will reveal the latest insights on how Finnish biodiversity has changed—and what it means for ecosystems and society. We very much hope to see you there!
Anna-Liisa Laine
Professor of Plant Biodiversity
Research Centre for Ecological Change (REC)
University of Helsinki