We Want to Make Choices for a More Sustainable Future
Human wellbeing depends on the wellbeing of nature, plants, animals and future generations. For us, caring for nature is not a trend — it is part of how we operate every day.
Through our decisions, we can influence climate change, biodiversity and the quality of life for both people and wildlife. We believe tourism should create positive impacts for local communities while minimizing environmental footprint.
At Summer Camp Finland and Uudenmaan Seuramatkat, we are committed to continuously developing more responsible travelling options and tourism services in Finland.
How We Promote Sustainable Tourism?
We actively work to reduce the environmental impact of our tours, camps and travel packages by:
- Operating coach tours using renewable Neste MY biofuel made from 100% renewable waste and residue materials together with Hyvinkään Liikenne Oy
- Favoring local services, family businesses and regional suppliers
- Favoring local food and seasonal ingredients
- Preferring accommodation providers committed to sustainable tourism development
- Favoring local responsible transport operators such as Finnair and Eckerö Line
- Encouraging longer stays and deeper local experiences and not supporting any forms of fast mass tourism
- Supporting nature conservation work in Finland
- Protecting old-growth forest areas through the Finnish Natural Heritage Foundation
- Enabling tree planting opportunities for customers
- Supporting biodiversity through our own adopted beehive initiative
- Calculating and minimizing the carbon footprint of selected travel packages whenever possible
- Developing greener tourism practices together with regional tourism organizations including HelsinkiNorth ry
How Is the Carbon Footprint of a Travel Package Calculated?
The carbon footprint of a travel package is calculated by combining emissions from different parts of the journey.
Transportation
Transport emissions are based on:
- travel distance,
- fuel type,
- vehicle consumption,
- and number of passengers.
For example, coach transport operated with renewable Neste MY biofuel can significantly reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil diesel.
Accommodation
Accommodation emissions are affected by:
- energy consumption,
- heating and cooling,
- water usage,
- lighting,
- and the energy sources used by the property.
Sharing rooms between two or more travelers can reduce the individual carbon footprint per guest.
Food & Dining
Food-related emissions include:
- food production,
- transportation,
- storage,
- and preparation.
Seasonal local food and plant-based meals generally produce lower emissions than heavily processed or imported products.
By understanding these elements, travelers can make more sustainable choices during their journey.
Our Sustainability Commitments
Helsinki Declaration
Uudenmaan Seuramatkat Oy has signed the Helsinki Declaration, the Finnish tourism industry’s commitment to sustainable development.
By signing the declaration, companies commit to continuously improving their operations through practical sustainability actions.
The Helsinki Declaration process is coordinated by SMAL – Finnish Travel Association.
SUSTOUR Carbon Management Program
Uudenmaan Seuramatkat Oy participated in the EU COSME-funded SUSTOUR project.
The SUSTOUR Carbon Management Program, developed by Travelife for Tour Operators & Travel Agencies, includes:
- sustainability training,
- carbon management guidance,
- and certification support for travel companies.
The program aims to help tour operators minimize carbon emissions and transition toward lower-emission tourism operations.
In Finland, the project cooperation partner is SMAL – Finnish Travel Association.
GOOD TRAVEL SEAL Certificate
Our sustainability work has been recognized through the international Good Travel Seal certification program.
The certification supports continuous improvement in environmental responsibility, social sustainability, safety and quality management within tourism operations.
On the Sustainable Travel Finland Path
We are currently developing our operations further through the Sustainable Travel Finland program coordinated by Visit Finland.
The Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) program supports tourism companies and destinations in adopting long-term sustainable tourism practices that take environmental, cultural, social, and economic responsibility into account.
Towards Climate Goals
We are continuously developing our operations in line with international climate goals and sustainable tourism principles, including the objectives of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism.
The declaration highlights the urgent need for climate action within tourism and supports the global objective of reducing emissions significantly during this decade and reaching Net Zero emissions before 2050.
Regenerative & Nature-Based Experiences for Groups
We organize tailor-made activities and programs that allow groups to actively contribute to nature and local environments together with our partners.
Examples include:
- Removing invasive plant species
- Tree planting activities
- Nature clean-up walks
- Environmental education programs
- Guided introduction to beekeeping and pollinator protection
- Regenerative tourism programs
- Nature and sustainability themed excursions and multi-day tours
These experiences can include:
- transportation,
- meals,
- guides,
- workshops,
- and full-day customized programs.
How You Can Travel More Sustainably?
Small choices matter. You can support sustainable tourism by:
- Choosing public transport, coach travel, or trains when possible
- Supporting local and small businesses
- Reducing unnecessary consumption
- Recycling and minimizing waste
- Saving water and energy while traveling
- Choosing local and seasonal food
- Planting trees and supporting conservation work
- Calculating your own carbon footprint
Contact Us
We are happy to help your group find meaningful, responsible and memorable travel experiences in Finland.
Contact us to learn more about sustainable travel programs, camps, educational visits and regenerative tourism experiences at toimisto@uudenmaanseuramatkat.fi
