NatureBeST project results and upcoming guidebook presented at the year’s last morning café by VisitKarelia

Last year tourism entrepreneurs from Kuhmo and North Karelia were interviewed on barriers and challenges they face in their attempt to improve energy, clean water, wastewater, and recycling. Entrepreneurs interest and plans of transitioning towards energy and resource efficiency was also asked.

The results of these interviews, which form the basis of NatureBeST guidebooks were presented during Visit Karelia's final morning café this year. Entrepreneurs from the region got an insight to the contents of the guidebook that will be out in January next year. The guidebook focuses on energy, material efficiency, and recycling solutions. Solutions are targeted mainly to small and medium-sized tourism enterprises.

The Finnish entrepreneurs were also interested to know about the Russian entrepreneurs’ interest and mindset concerning green solutions, and current state of these in Russian side of the border. They were also interested to know how keen Russian visitors are about destination sustainability and responsible practices.  

It was very much hoped that responsible and sustainable travel become new normal post COVID-19 pandemic!