Board making in Finland

Visit Report
Student Group from BHT University Berlin, NUFT & NUBiP University Kyiv
Trip to Helsinki, Suomenlinna, and Metsä Board in Äänekoski

As part of an academic exchange and educational excursion, a mixed student group from BHT University Berlin, NUFT, and NUBiP University in Kyiv had the opportunity to visit several key locations in Finland related to forestry and sustainable packaging industries. The trip provided valuable insights into the Finnish approach to forestry management, innovation in wood-based product manufacturing, and sustainable development.

Day 1: Forest Visit and Tree Harvesting Demonstration

The visit began with an excursion into a Finnish forest where we observed modern forestry practices. A professional demonstration showcased the use of a harvester, an advanced machine used for cutting trees efficiently and with precision. This experience offered firsthand insight into the sustainable and controlled harvesting methods employed in Finland’s forestry sector.

Day 2 morning: ProNemus Visitor Center – Harvester Simulation

The following day, we visited the ProNemus visitor center, a hub for innovation and sustainability by Metsä Group. Here, we had the unique chance to simulate the operation of a harvester, allowing us to better understand the technical skills required and the precision involved in the harvesting process. The interactive and immersive experience deepened our appreciation for the technology used in sustainable forestry.

Day 2 afternoon: Metsä Board Factory, Äänekoski – Board Production & Design Center

The highlight of our trip was the visit to the Metsä Board factory in Äänekoski, where we were welcomed by our kind and knowledgeable hosts, Gabriel Goldmayer and Gunilla Nykopp. At the factory, we observed the entire board production process, from raw material handling to the final packaging solutions. The visit also included guided tours of the ProNemus visitor center and the Metsä Design Center, where we learned about cutting-edge product development and design in fiber-based packaging. The facility emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and circular economy principles.

Cultural Visit: Helsinki & Suomenlinna

In addition to the professional program, the group also enjoyed a cultural visit to Helsinki, including a trip to the historic Suomenlinna sea fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This offered a well-rounded understanding of Finnish culture, history, and architecture, enriching the overall experience. One other tasks were to do some store checks to look for different packaging designs and „unsusal“ means of packaging for products.

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Conclusion

This excursion offered an invaluable combination of theoretical knowledge, practical exposure, and cultural exchange. We extend our sincere thanks to Gabriel and Gunilla from Metsä for their warm hospitality, insightful explanations, and for making our visit both educational and inspiring. The trip significantly contributed to our understanding of sustainable forestry and packaging innovations in Finland