Statistical news

More than 100 new nature reserves

In 2021, the number of nature reserves increased by 101 areas. This means that Sweden had more than 5,300 nature reserves at the end of 2021. The largest new nature reserve was the Slite archipelago, located on the eastern side of Gotland. The area covers more than 6,300 hectares in total, including a marine area of almost 6,000 hectares.

2022-05-24 • Protected nature

Major increase in protected marine area

The largest increase in nature reserve area came from the two new reserves Skånska Kattegatt in northwest Skåne and Ottenby rev south of Öland’s southern tip, and the expanded reserve Svenska Högarna in the northeast section of the Stockholm archipelago. Taken together, these account for an increase of 130 000 hectares.

2021-05-27 • Protected nature

Formally protected areas account for 15 percent

Formally protected areas account for 14.9 percent of Sweden’s total land area and inland waters. Almost all of the protected areas, 97 percent, are permanently protected under the Environmental Code. Permanent protection covers national parks, nature reserves, nature conservation areas, habitat protection areas, the National City Park, and Natura 2000. Formal protection applies to 12 percent of Sweden’s marine areas, virtually all with permanent protection under the Environmental Code.

2020-05-27 • Protected nature

Protected nature accounts for 15 percent of Sweden’s terrestrial area

The protected nature that emerged in 2018 consisted of almost 60 percent of forest land. Marine areas accounted for 22 percent and 12 percent were open wetlands.

2019-05-24 • Protected nature

Protected nature in Sweden 2017

Nationally designated areas of protection encompass 11 percent of Sweden’s land surface, including inland waters. In 2017, designated protected areas (marine and terrestrial) increased by almost 100 000 hectares. The new areas are mainly located in nature reserves in mountainous areas in northern Sweden.

2018-05-23 • Protected nature