The History of Sweden’s National Parks
The history of national parks began in the United States in the late 19th century. Sweden became the first European country to establish national parks in 1909.
The History of Sweden’s National Parks
The history of national parks began in the United States in the late 19th century. Sweden became the first European country to establish national parks in 1909.
The world’s first national park was created in the USA in 1872, when the Yellowstone area in the Rocky Mountains was protected.
In Sweden, polar explorer Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld proposed in 1880 that Sweden should introduce a similar form of protection to safeguard Swedish and Nordic wilderness areas.
Three decades later, in 1904, the Member of Parliament and botanist Karl Starbäck submitted a motion, followed by a report in 1907. In it, he criticised “man’s ruthless exploitation of nature, driven by short-term gain”.
Sweden’s First National Parks
The growing commitment to protecting Sweden’s nature led to Sweden becoming the first country in Europe to establish national parks. On 24 May 1909, the first parks were created:
- Abisko
- Garphyttan
- Gotska Sandön
- Hamra
- Pieljekaise
- Sarek
- Sonfjället
- Stora Sjöfallet
- Ängsö
These early parks were selected primarily for their aesthetic value – areas of beautiful nature considered attractive to visitors. The selection was somewhat arbitrary and heavily concentrated in the north of the country, while areas such as archipelagos were not represented at all.
Developing the National Park System
Over time, the process of establishing national parks has evolved – both in terms of how areas are selected and how collaboration between authorities and local stakeholders is managed. In 2008, a new national park plan was adopted, with clearer criteria and stronger links to the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Between 1918 and 1962, Sweden added seven new national parks. Between 1982 and 2002, twelve more were established. Today, Sweden has 31 national parks.