Sustainability – Travel Trade

Green travel

You may have noticed that Norwegians have a thing about spending time outdoors. They are very proud of their pristine nature, and they intend to keep it that way. Search for eco-friendly travel products and learn more about sustainable initiatives and destinations in Norway.

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Working to improve sustainability

There is no doubt that Norway takes environmental issues seriously. Nature plays an important part in many Norwegians’ lives, and they are very keen to preserve the country’s unspoilt wilderness with waterfalls, fjords and glaciers. Therefore Norway is constantly working to improve sustainability in all business segments, including travel and tourism.

Looking after the environment is an important part, but it is about much more than that: creating thriving local communities and developing ethical business practices, for example.

Local, organic menus

Many hotels also feature organic products on their menus. For example, Scandic hotels have decided to say no to genetically modified (GM) foods and serve organic breakfast and fair trade coffee. Several of their hotels also feature local food specialities, something which supports local small scale food producers and showcases the gastronomic identity and diversity of Norway’s regions.

A greener travel industry

Most hotels in Norway have put concrete measures to control energy, water consumption, waste generation and recycling in place. It is, for example, becoming increasingly common to use energy-saving devices like automatic light switches, low-flush toilets, wash basins with sensors, eco-labelled cleaning products, and energy efficient dishwashers and washing machines.

The right of access

Spending time in nature is considered a right in Norway, and just as in other Nordic countries, this right is inscribed in law.

According to the so-called Right of access (Allemansretten), everyone should be able to enjoy the countryside, including the national parks, as long as a few simple rules are followed.

Sustainable destinations

A few Norwegian destinations have obtained the prestigious Sustainable destination standard. In order to qualify for this label, destinations must demonstrate their commitment to provide the best possible experience for visitors while keeping the negative impact of tourism to a minimum.

This is done by fulfilling 45 criteria and 108 indicators that cover nature, culture, environment, social values, community involvement and economic viability. The label has to be renewed every three years.

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A guide to environmental certifications in Norway

Make sure your holiday has the smallest footprint possible by looking for these labels and logos.

Ecotourism Norway

Ecotourism Norway logo

This national certification is awarded to businesses and operators that hold a high international level in ecotourism. Over 100 strict criteria on environmental performance, host-role, local community integration and purchasing must be met and often improved. The certificate is renewed every three years.

The ecolabel Nordic Swan

Ecolabel Nordic Swan logo

More than 5000 products in Norway are certified with Nordic Swan, which indicates that they satisfy strict demands within energy efficiency, materials, and chemicals, all the way from raw materials to end product and waste management.

Eco-Lighthouse

Eco-Lighthouse logo

The Eco-Lighthouse certification places demands on energy use, waste disposal, transportation, procurement and work environment. Over 5000 businesses in Norway are certified with this, which must be renewed every three years.

The Green Key

Global ecolabel, recognized by GSTC, for hotels, small accommodations, campsites and attractions. Certified businesses must meet strict criteria within among others the areas of waste, energy, water, procurement, green areas, CSR and staff involvement. The high standards are maintained through annual certificate renewal, rigorous application process and documentation and frequent audits.

ISO 14001

ISO 14001 logo

ISO 14001 is given to enterprises that have a high-quality environmental managing system for organizational performance.

Blue flag

Blue Flag logo

Global, prestigious award based on a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety-related and access related criteria to be met and maintained, aimed at beaches and marinas. More than 4100 sites in 49 countries are awarded with the Blue Flag.

Search for green travel options

To find sustainable products, click on "Filter your search" below and select "Green Travel - Eco-certified providers".