Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Abisko

Park Protection

Abisko National Park has strict rules to protect its fragile subarctic environment. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and do not pick plants or flowers. These rules help preserve the delicate ecosystem.

Waste Management

Sweden has excellent recycling programs. Sort waste at designated bins at accommodations (plastic, paper, metal, organic). Littering is strictly prohibited in the park. Pack out everything you pack in.

Water & Carbon

Water use remains encouraged. Take shorter showers. Consider choosing train travel over flights for lower carbon footprint. Research carbon offset programs if flying.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Choose partners and practices that align with environmental values.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Accommodation options often have a focus on sustainability.

Green Lodging

STF (Swedish Tourist Association): Has a strong focus on sustainability.
Renewable Energy: Many STF operations use renewable energy.
Responsible Tourism: STF promotes responsible tourism practices.
Ecobnb: Explore eco-friendly accommodation options for your stay.

Sustainable Operators

Many tour operators in Abisko strive for eco-friendly practices.

Ethical Tours

Eco-Practices: Operators use dog sledding over snowmobiles when appropriate.
Group Sizes: Minimizing group sizes.
Environmental Policies: Inquire about environmental policies before booking.
G Adventures: Consider ethical tour operators for responsible travel experiences.

Carbon Offsetting

Reduce your carbon footprint from travel.

Offset Your Journey

Train Travel: Choose train travel over flights for lower emissions.
Carbon Offset Programs: Research options offered by airlines.
Terrapass: Support carbon offset projects to balance your travel impact.

Leave No Trace

The core principle for wilderness enjoyment.

Park Conduct

Stay on Trails: Avoid disturbing delicate flora and fauna.
Pack it Out: Carry all trash, including food scraps.
Wildlife: Do not approach or feed wildlife.
Respect Nature: Preserve the pristine Arctic environment.

Resourceful Packing & Purchasing

Mindful Packing

Bring reusable items to minimize waste.

Package Free Shop: Find reusable travel products.

Thoughtful Purchases

Choose products that are sustainably produced and packaged.

Patagonia: Supports environmental conservation through its business practices.

Eco Travel Commitment

Your conscious choices contribute to the long-term health of Abisko's unique environment.

Cultural Sensitivity

Your interactions with local culture leave a lasting impression.

Sami Cultural Respect

Take time to learn about Sami traditions, history, and current way of life.

Cultural Appreciation

Learn & Understand: Engage with their heritage respectfully.
Privacy: Always ask for permission before taking photos of Sami individuals.
Reindeer: Do not disturb reindeer herds; they are part of Sami livelihood.
Avoid Generalizations: Recognize the diversity within Sami culture.

Ethical Photography

Be mindful when photographing people, especially in more rural or traditional settings.

Photo Etiquette

Consent: Always consider privacy and seek consent where appropriate.
Signage: Adhere to signage regarding photography in sensitive areas.
Respectful Distancing: Maintain a respectful distance.
Cultural Context: Understand what you are photographing.

Economic Support

Local Impact

Local Businesses: Patronize local restaurants and buy local crafts.
Direct Booking: Prioritize booking directly with Abisko-based operators.
Direct Benefits: Money directly benefits people living and working in Abisko.
The Rainforest Site: Support conservation efforts through ethical purchases.

Responsible Practices

Avoid activities that exploit animals or harm the environment.

Ethical Considerations

Animal Welfare: Avoid unethical reindeer sleigh rides where animals appear distressed.
Environmental Integrity: Choose tours that respect the environment.
Sustainable Operators: Choose operators committed to ethical practices.
Charitable Giving: Support reputable local environmental or Sami cultural organizations.

Summary of Ethical Travel

Respect Local Culture

Learn about Sami traditions and ask for permission for photos.

Support Local Economy

Choose local businesses and authentic crafts.

Protect the Environment

Follow park rules and minimize your waste.

Mindful Travel

Your respectful engagement and thoughtful choices contribute to a positive and sustainable tourism experience for Abisko and its communities.

Economic Contributions

Local Business Support

Local Patronage

Patronize local restaurants and buy local crafts.

Direct Booking

Prioritize booking directly with Abisko-based operators.

Direct Benefits

Money directly benefits people living and working in Abisko.

Fair Trade & Authenticity

Sami Crafts: Ensure purchases are genuine "duodji" (Sami handicraft).
Avoid Imitations: Look for certification or purchase directly from Sami artisans.
Fair Wages: Supports authentic craftsmanship and fair wages.
Cultural Heritage: Helps preserve Sami cultural heritage.

Responsible Tourism Practices

Animal Welfare: Avoid activities that exploit animals, like unethical reindeer sleigh rides.
Environmental Integrity: Choose tours that respect the environment.
Community Well-being: Ensure tours benefit local communities.
Sustainable Certification: Look for certified eco-tourism operators.

Charitable Giving & Investment

Local Organizations

Support reputable local environmental organizations.

Sami Cultural Groups

Donate to organizations that genuinely work for the betterment of the region and its people.

Research

Research organizations before donating.

Impactful Travel

Your choices contribute to the well-being of the destination and its people.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel