Estonia
In addition to being an example of sustainable transportation, Estonia is also one of the countries that have managed to promote advances in social sustainability by reducing poverty levels and increasing levels of freedom and happiness. Discover the destinations that have been applying the concepts of sustainability into their daily practices.
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Explore the options for a responsible trip
GOOD PLACES TO VISIT
Explore destinations that were certified for their sustainability efforts
GOOD BUSINESSES
Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and attractions that are commited to responsible development
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
Historic and cultural heritage
In addition to the beaches, take the opportunity to visit the Casa de Taipa Museum and the Church of São Miguel do Arcanjo.
PROMO CODE:
GOOD PRACTICE STORIES
Get inspired with stories from places and people that are acting for a fair and responsible tourism
Hiiumaa Island
During holiday season the numerous public recyclables collecting sites of the island were constantly overloaded with mixed waste in all municipalities of Hiiu County. Some of the waste improperly stuffed into packaging waste bins, contaminating the contents of the container, some piled up just around the bins. Looking for solutions of the yearly increasing problem, the destination management, together with municipalities and local manufacturer worked out a system of so -called pre-paid mixed waste disposal bags for tourists.
Järvamaa
There’s no I in the community, but there’s U and there’s unity. Within the past six years, a 150 year- old derelict house in Türi has fully represented the true meaning, the origin of the word community. It also represents the current societal values of sustainability and green living. What was meant to be demolished, has inspired, educated and motivated, introduced and encouraged thousands of people in Estonia and from abroad to fix things rather than to bin them. Through workshops, festivals and being the living example of the sustainable mindset in everything, Konna maja (Frog House) has become a must-visit place, not only because of its old stories, but the new one, telling itself daily through in-house businesses and artists, thriving and inspiring others.
KNOW THEIR STORY
Lahemaa
Lahemaa is a popular nature tourism destination. Therefore, many tour guides work there, but very many of them come from towns and are not locals. At the same time, national park sets many restrictions on local inhabitants, limiting their working possibilities and consequently a large number of Lahemaa people have to work outside the park and commute every day. Lahemaa Tourism Association (Visit Lahemaa), a local DMO has conducted a training and certification of local people as tour guides for three years, together with several partners. 75 people have got the certification so far.
KNOW THEIR STORY
Pärnumaa
The construction of the Sindi rapids was one of the main parts of the giant project “Restoration of habitats of the Pärnu river basin”, the main goal of which was to open the entire length of the Pärnu river for fish migration by demolishing the dam of the old hydroelectric power plant. Along with thedemolition of the Sindi dam and the construction of access roads and an artificial rapid, good conditions were created for the development of a public space and a year-round water sports and water tourism center with a recreation area that meets international standards. The municipality saw the implementation of such a large-scale environmental project as an opportunity to transform the riverbanks into recreation areas. The project lasted from 27.03.2015 to 31.12.2022.
Rakvere
Rakvere is a fast-developing, modern city with a long history, with lots of greenery and diverse culture. We are very proud that GreenDestinations recognized the city of Rakvere with the international green destination silver level. It is important for us to continuously develop the city of Rakvere as a sustainable destination and increase the attractiveness of the region. The long street is the main street of the historic old town of Rakvere, the purpose of the reconstruction was to design a modern urban space, where the traffic load has been reduced and attention has been paid to the comfort of pedestrians. In the accompanying story, you will learn how an attractive and modern pedestrian-friendly link between Rakvere’s central square and the rampart was created as part of the renewal of Pika Street, valuing the main street of the historic old town and creating the conditions for bringing investments to the area.
KNOW THEIR STORY
Saaremaa
A language is a super-power, it is the essence of culture and diversity and it gives a real sense of empowerment to express yourself in your own language. Saaremaa is a small destination within a small destination (Estonia), and we really have to and want to highlight things that make us unique. As such story telling and language is important part of sharing our story. And our good practice story is focusing on one of them, our own language – Saare dialect. Its peculiarities are drowning in the common language, but we fight back. In order for our culture, language and community to be alive and thriving we want to state to our locals and as well as to our guests that Saare language is our own super-pöwer. To empower people to learn it, use it and share that super-pöwer.
KNOW THEIR STORY
Tartu
Tartu is home to almost 100 000 inhabitants. Recently, more and more residents have commuted by car. Initiatives to promote green transport have sprung up rapidly (Tartu smart bike, Car-free avenue). However, an idea that would adopt the solution to locals as their own was missing. The transformation of the port railway into a green corridor originated as a proposal in a participative budgeting program. It identified a place where cycling infrastructure is lacking and can engage up to 20 % of Tartu’s population in sustainable mobility. Moreover, it involves more vulnerable road traffic groups. Children, dog owners, elderly people, and tourist visitors can experience the beauty of Tartu from a different angle, without having to watch out for cars and inhale exhaust fumes. The project has resonated not only with the citizens but also with local politicians, who abandoned the plan to build a ring road here.
KNOW THEIR STORY
Sustainability
Estonia is recognized as one of the leading nations globally when it comes to sustainable development metrics that take into account the balanced progress across social, economic, and environmental domains. The country is committed to renewable energy sources, efficient waste management, and promoting sustainable practices in industries like forestry and agriculture. In addition, regarding tourism policies, their main objective is to make Estonia viable and to support their businesses to be resilient to changes.
Travel tips from our editors
Getting around
Getting around Estonia is quite convenient due to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. In urban areas like Tallinn, Tartu, and Pärnu, public transportation, including buses, trams, and trolleys, is efficient and covers most parts of the cities. Furthermore, inter-city buses are the best options to go from place to place. The country is also known for its bike-friendly environment, with dedicated cycling lanes and rental services available in many places
Discover Estonia by bus:
7 top green destinations in 7 days!
Tourism & People
Estonia has a rich cultural heritage of folk song and dance, colourful handicrafts, wooden saunas and rustic food. It is a hidden gem for travelers, known for its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming people. Tourists are drawn to its picturesque medieval towns, pristine forests, and the enchanting Baltic coastline. What sets Estonia apart is the warm hospitality of its people, who take pride in sharing their culture and traditions with visitors.
Nature & Wildlife
Estonia’s natural beauty and wildlife are evidence of its commitment to conservation. With vast areas of forests, wetlands, and a diverse array of habitats, the country provides a sanctuary for a wide range of wildlife. From lynx and wolves in the forests to migratory birds along its coasts, it offers unique opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. The country’s network of national parks and preserves ensures the protection of these ecosystems, making it a haven for both native and migratory species, while also providing nature lovers with countless opportunities to connect with the wild side of Estonia.
Sustainability Recognitions
Brazil has 9 destinations featured in the Top 100 Sustainable Destinations 2021.
Other sustainability certifications can be seen here (English) and here (Portuguese).
Fernanda Rodak | Page Editor
“Brazil is a worldwide known hotspot for biodiversity as well as home to a multitude of cultural expressions. The natural and cultural heritage and immense variety of tourism experiences in the country are valuable assets for its competitiveness. Yet, as we envision a post Covid-19 era, sustainability in tourism becomes crucial to build resilience and guarantee the long-lasting health of Brazil’s ecosystems and well-being of the hosting communities. This would also ensure an active contribution of the country’s tourism sector to the Sustainable Development Goals.”
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