This 2021 file photo shows tourists visiting Nyhavn, a 17th-century waterfront in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images
Hide caption
Toggle caption
Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP via Getty Images
Tourists visiting the Danish capital Copenhagen this summer could be in for a free kayak rental or a free cup of coffee if they make environmentally friendly choices during their trip.
City Announced Earlier this month, the city announced it was rolling out a new initiative called “CopenPay” in an effort to encourage visitors to adopt more sustainable behaviours, such as walking, cycling, using public transport and picking up litter.
“The aim is to create meaningful and memorable experiences that are fun and environmentally conscious,” said Mikkel Aaro Hansen, CEO of Wonderful Copenhagen, the city of Copenhagen’s tourist board.
Arrive at the National Museum by bike or public transport and receive a free ice cream made from locally grown rhubarb, strawberry and liquorice with your ticket purchase; pick up trash in the Bain Garden precinct and receive a free organic meal; and Green Kayaking will lend you a free kayak if you pick up trash on the water and post it on social media.
Officials say participants can provide evidence such as train tickets or photos of themselves taking part in climate-friendly activities, but point out that the system is “built on trust, just as Danish society is one of the most trusting in the world.” According to Pew Research“
This pilot program will allow residents of other parts of Europe to Crowds of tourists Every year, people flock to its historic cities and picturesque beaches, leading to rapid development and rising costs for local residents.
In Spain, Protests erupted There have been demonstrations in the Canary Islands against overtourism, and recently in Barcelona Fired a water gun At the diner in Venice Exclusive Tour Groups This year, up to 25 people An admission fee was charged While it affected some tourists, critics said the pilot program aimed at day trippers did little to ease congestion.
Copenhagen authorities say they are not trying to attract more tourists but to reduce tourism’s current environmental impact on the city of more than 600,000 people.
Copenhagen attracted 12 million international overnight guests last year, according to the tourist board.
The pilot program begins on Monday. 24 participating institutions The event will continue until Aug. 11. Officials say they hope it will become a year-round event and expand beyond Copenhagen.
