Green Happenings in Copenhagen

Officials in Copenhagen have found that there is a need to change the mindset of tourists and encourage green choices. Their data show a 82% say they’re willing to act sustainably, but only 22% have changed their behaviors.

As reported by NPR, Copenhagen’s official tourism organization has introduced CopenPay - “a new initiative transforming green actions into currency for cultural experiences. It is Copenhagen’s ambition to inspire visitors to make conscious green choices and help bridge the large gap between the desire to act sustainably and their actual behaviour.” Some examples from the CopenPay site are included below:

CopenPay rewards actions such as cycling, participating in cleanup efforts, or volunteering at urban farms with access to a variety of experiences in Copenhagen. This includes complimentary guided museum tours, free kayak rentals, and even a free vegetarian lunch made from local crops.

For instance, visitors arriving at the National Gallery of Denmark with plastic waste are invited to a workshop to turn it into a piece of art. Similarly, taking public transport or a bike to Copenhagen's iconic heating plant grants a unique experience of skiing down its slope on the building’s roof. Arrive at the National Museum by bike or public transit, and you'll get a free ice cream made from local rhubarb, strawberry and licorice when you buy your ticket. Pick up trash in the BaneGaarden area for a free organic meal. GreenKayak will let you take out a kayak at no charge if you collect trash on the water and post about it on social media.

It’s a challenge, but maybe the idea could catch on here!