Tourists going to Copenhagen can be rewarded for eco-friendly
behaviour through a new incentive programme launched by the city's
tourist board. The "CopenPay" scheme, starting 15 July 2024, offers
visitors free perks for engaging in sustainable activities like litter
collection, using public transportation, or cycling.
Rikke Holm Petersen, communications chief for Copenhagen's tourist
board, explained: "When you travel abroad - if you fly to other places
or you travel by car - you pollute. One of the things we can change is
getting people to act more sustainably at the destination."
The trust-based pilot programme, running until 11 August 2024,
involves 24 local organisations offering rewards such as complimentary
meals, drinks, and activity vouchers. No government funding is involved.
Copenhagen, which recorded over 12 million overnight stays last year,
expects a "small percentage" of visitors to participate. If successful,
the programme may be extended.
Petersen notes that while the scheme is a "little step towards the
green transition," its impact could be significant: "Imagine if we could
have people taking a greener mindset back with them - if that was the
souvenir they got - that would be amazing."