Long-Term Development of Water and Sewage Services in Finland

Abstract

This article describes the evolution of urban and rural water supply and sanitation in Finland over the past 150 years. In addition to technology development, it explores various institutional issues related to the water sector such as legislation, utility management, human resources development, research and development, professional associations, sector enterprises such as consulting companies and contractors, and exporting activities. Though utilities in Finland are mostly publicly owned, they today adhere to commercial principles. Planning, construction, operation, and maintenance services are often bought from the private sector. The services have been, and still are, covered by direct consumer payments, whereas governmental subsidies have been small. Rural water supply is organized through consumer-managed water cooperatives. Water supply and sanitation systems and services have expanded gradually. Sometimes old treatment methods have been reintroduced. In the future, there will be more focus in the sector on increasing customer orientation, intermunicipal cooperation of utilities, and international cooperation. The gained long-term experience will be a cornerstone of future water policy and strategy development.