Sustainable tourism plays a significant role in Visit Espoo's and the local tourism companies' strategies. Sustainable practices are integrated into daily operations, including the use of natural resources and locally produced materials, recycling, upcycling, energy consumption monitoring and optimization, as well as choices in power production. Companies also engage in regenerative projects and strive to offer accessible services (both physically and digitally) to all visitors.
In 2024, Visit Finland awarded Espoo the Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) destination label as a recognition of Visit Espoo's and the local businesses' commitment to developing and continuously promoting sustainable tourism.
To achieve this label, 51% of the tourism companies within the destination's network must have an STF label.
Explore concrete examples
Haltia Lake Lodge - nature boutique hotel
Named the most sustainable boutique hotel in Europe in 2022, Haltia Lake Lodge is all about nature, local ingredients, sustainability, and good living. Watch the video to discover their journey of opening a nature hotel during a global pandemic and their commitment to sustainable choices in everyday operations.
Hawkhill Cottage Resort
In 2024, Visit Finland named Annu from Hawkhill as its first Sustainable Ambassador. The family-owned cottage resort, established in the 1960s, has prioritized sustainability for years. They reached a significant milestone by restoring the Haukansuo carbon sink on their land and organizing restorative projects like the Lupin Battle while actively promoting sustainability to their visitors. Watch the video to see a tour operator’s experience visiting Hawkhill.
Read more on companies' websites
Hero Image: Visit Espoo / Antti Rastivo
