Most Sustainable Tourism Destinations
Updated: Dec 15, 2022
The best sustainable tourism destinations, are not always the most popular. Being locked-down for so long, we're now all yearning for travel to new and exciting destinations. However, when it comes to eco-friendly and sustainable tourism, there are certain cities that stand out above the rest. These cities are doing their part to attract environmentally conscious travellers, while also taking steps to remain green themselves. Let’s take a look at some of the most sustainable tourist destinations in the world today.
Copenhagen, Denmark
This Scandinavian city is known for being one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, but it’s also taking big steps towards sustainability. Copenhagen is known as a leader in decarbonisation and plans to reduce its CO2 emissions by 70 per cent by 2030. Copenhagen recently launched its own version of the Paris Climate Agreement in order to make that goal a reality.
They’ve also implemented initiatives such as “Green Wave” which ensures all lights change to green when cyclists approach an intersection; “The Harbour Baths” which encourages people to use the harbour for swimming rather than traditional swimming pools; and “Green Roofs Initiative” which is aimed at making living roofs more accessible for residents.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik has become increasingly popular with tourists looking for a more eco-friendly destination. The city runs on 85 per cent renewable energy where hydropower and geothermal energy provides 72 per cent and 25 per cent of its electricity needs respectively. Reykjavik also puts an emphasis on zero waste initiatives such as recycling programs and composting facilities in public places like parks and schools. The city has made great strides towards sustainability over the years and continues to look for ways to reduce its carbon footprint even further.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is another leader in green tourism thanks to its commitment to clean energy sources such as solar power and biomass energy. The city also has some of the most advanced waste management systems in the world with strict guidelines on what can be recycled or composted from households or businesses. In an effort to reduce car traffic and CO2 emissions, Stockholm also introduced congestion charges which helped the city to reduce cars on its roads by 20 per cents and congestion by 30 to 50 per cents. Swedish capital also prides itself in using electric buses that are powered by renewable energy sources and will soon implement a new green initiative in public transportation - an energy-efficient flying ferry.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh has long been known for its stunning architecture, but it is now making waves in terms of sustainable tourism initiatives as well. The city is home to several projects aimed at reducing its carbon footprint including a car sharing platform which encourages carpooling; The Edinburgh Reuse Network which educates citizens about reuse options; and The Sustainable Tourism Action Plan designed to reduce emissions from transport used by visitors in the city centre area by 20 per cent.
Oslo, Norway
Oslo has set itself apart from other cities with its ambitious goals when it comes to sustainability—namely with its plans to become nearly zero emissions by 2030! This goal will be achieved through various measures such as transitioning buildings away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy sources such as heat pumps; encouraging citizens to switch from cars or public transport towards bicycles; investing heavily into public transport infrastructure; increasing protection for forests; introducing food waste bins for households; among many other projects aimed at improving environmental standards across Oslo's neighbourhoods.
Sustainability shouldn't just be something we strive for - it should be something we actively practise every day! These five cities have set an excellent example of how eco-friendly travel can be achieved without sacrificing comfort or convenience - proving that sustainable tourism doesn't have to mean sacrificing luxury or style either! So if you're looking for your next adventure destination that won't leave too much of a mark on our planet - these five locations should definitely top your list!
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