In Denmark, there is a growing concern about camper van tourism and its impact on the environment and local communities. Locals often complain about camper van tourists parking in mass, obstructing views at beauty spots, and littering the environment. To address these issues, Denmark is looking to make camper van tourism more sustainable and beneficial for all parties involved.
CEO of tourist company Visit Northwest Coast, Peter Krusborg Pedersen, compares the current situation to the ‘Wild West’ due to the lack of regulations in place for camper van tourism. This lack of rules can lead to uncertainties for both tourists and municipalities, making it challenging for holiday-goers to decide where to park. In response, regulations are being introduced to ban parking in certain areas, provide more information for camper van tourists, and create designated parking spots.
With 2.3 million camper van overnight stays in 2022 and a 27% increase in camper vans in the last five years, VisitDenmark expects this trend to continue growing. As a result, tourist organisations, local governments, and campgrounds want to find a sustainable approach that benefits the economy without negatively impacting the local community. This includes incentivizing well-behaved tourists and rewarding them for sustainable choices.
In contrast to negative reactions towards tourists in other cities, Copenhagen is taking a more positive approach by rewarding responsible behavior. From Monday onward, visitors who choose eco-friendly transportation options or volunteer for work like gardening or rubbish collection will be rewarded with financial and other incentives. Additionally, those who bring reusable coffee cups to select venues can receive a free brew as part of the CopenPay initiative.
Mikkel Aarø-Hansen of Wonderful Copenhagen’s official tourist board highlights the importance of creating a more mutually beneficial and less disruptive relationship between tourists and local residents. By encouraging tourists to make conscious decisions that benefit the environment and community, Denmark aims to transform camper van tourism into a sustainable source of income while preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Overall, Denmark’s efforts to address the challenges posed by camper van tourism demonstrate a commitment to balancing the economic benefits of tourism with environmental conservation and community well-being. By implementing regulations, incentivizing sustainable behavior, and fostering a positive relationship between tourists and locals, Denmark is working towards a more sustainable and harmonious future for camper van tourism in the country.
