Legal framework for continuous environmental education of Finnish citizens as the basis of environmental wellness of the country

Abstract

Finland is one of the leading countries in implementation of the principles of sustainable development on the federal level. The foundation for successful environmental policy of this country is the comprehensive and continuous environmental education of citizens. Finns are recognized by the global community as one of the most environmentally conscious people in the world. The article explores Finland ‘s experience in implementation of environmental education in all spheres of social life. Special attention is given to international agreements and conventions that considerably impacted the recognition of environmental education as the basis for the development of environmental culture of the population. The author determines the stages of formation of the normative framework for implementing the environmental education policy. Analysis is conducted on the functions of the main government branches that are responsible for the development of plans and strategies on implementation and coordination of all-round environmental education. The author explores the mechanism of cooperation of the key actors in implementation of the strategies of sustainable development of the country. The article provides the examples of realization of the policy of continuous environmental education in preschools, schools, higher educational institutions, and other educational establishments; as well as the methods of instilling environmental consciousness in the citizens of all age groups. The author analyzes major achievements of Finnish policy on improving environmental culture and increasing environmental awareness of its citizens; assesses its effectiveness and role in setting the course for sustainable development of the country. The experience of Finland can serve as an example of improving this institution in the Russian Federation.