Classification and development of bedrock resources in Finland

On the basis of an analysis of the present utilization of the bedrock in Finland, the bedrock resources have been classified into five groups that differ in nature and to some extent conflict with one another: (1) mineral resources, (2) bedrock groundwater, (3) underground space, (4) base for construction, and (5) rock-environment resources. The meaning, abundance, and economic significance of each group are discussed. The mineral resources are regarded as economically by far the most important bedrock resource in Finland. An analysis of the economic nature and the development of the mineral resources shows that in spite of continuous mining the abundance of known mineral resources will continue to increase for years to come