We have traveled to Norway several times, usually by sailboat. While sailing along the fjord coast is beautiful, it has never taken us to the capital city of Oslo. There’s a good chance that will happen this year. Because Oslo has been named European Green Capital for 2019. A good reason to spend a few days in the city.
What green activities are there to do?
As part of its selection as European Green Capital, Oslo is organizing a variety of events throughout the year. For example, in late August, you can attend Passion for Ocean, a free festival open to everyone that shows you why you should love the sea, how the sea works, and what you can do to protect it. For true water lovers (like us…), with sailboats, divers, kiteboards, eco-pirates, fishermen, biologists, chefs, and innovators.
The Nobel Peace Center presents an interactive exhibition on climate and environment in the spirit of Alfred Nobel. The exhibition shows how entrepreneurship, creativity, new ways of thinking, and technology can be used to create a more sustainable society in Norway and beyond. Or visit the “Gå FuTURe” exhibition, which focuses on green mobility and walking. The creators want you to think about how we see the world at walking speed and from a pedestrian’s point of view.
But there are more green and sustainable things to do in this city, and the best way to discover them is… by bike. A ride along the harbor promenade, for example, is highly recommended. This 9 km long, paved bike path runs all along the Oslofjord. If you cycle further west along the fjord, you’ll reach the Bygdøy peninsula. Here you’ll find not only cafes, museums (including the Viking Ship Museum), and beaches, but also Bygdø kongsgård. This originally royal farm is Oslo’s largest organic dairy and food producer. On Saturdays, the gates and stable doors open, and you can visit the cows, sheep, and ponies or wander through the organic vegetable garden.
Sustainable Destination
All these activities and initiatives are, of course, very inspiring for the city’s residents and visitors. But they also help Oslo to obtain – in the not-too-distant future – the coveted Sustainable Destination label. This quality mark is for destinations committed to sustainably counteracting the negative impact of tourism, with the aim of preserving or restoring local nature, culture, and environment. Oslo’s election as European Green Capital is certainly a significant step in that good direction.
© 2019 Annet Achterkamp
I wrote this article for hetkanWEL, a website full of inspiration for a greener, fairer & more enjoyable life.
