The ambition is for climate-smart solutions to be good examples for implementation at other destinations. The project will also provide knowledge about how the tourism industry can grow without increasing net emissions of carbon dioxide from transport.

Car-free test traveling

The ongoing pandemic gave the project a tumultuous start and forced the project team to rethink methods. This year, the project has finally gained momentum. During the summer, a test traveller has travelled around between the various tourist destinations for 5 days by train, bus, bicycle, and bicycle ferry. Their conclusion was that car-free travel is entirely possible, but that it requires some planning.

– In the summer of 2021, it has become even clearer how important it is to work with climate-smart travel for visitors. The test traveller’s trip is proof that it is possible to travel without your own car to most of the major destinations, says Caroline Mattsson, Trivector, project manager for the project.

New bike trails and more renters

During the summer of 2021, both Glasriket and Öland have invested extra in cycling. In Glasriket, two new loops have been created that can be found on the Nature Map. The possibility of renting bicycles has increased and there are several bicycle packages to choose from. Öland is also investing in cycling. New cycle routes have been developed and the signage for cyclists will gradually be improved. In addition, Öland’s tourist office has launched a new website with an increased focus on climate smart travel.

More focus on public transport after the pandemic

The pandemic has greatly affected the means of transport that the project highlights.

-Due to the pandemic, this summer, we have chosen to focus on climate-smart means of transport without having to travel together. Hopefully we are in a different situation next summer and can then test some of our ideas that include public transport. Several of the destinations, including Astrid Lindgren’s World, are very easy to travel to by train. Of course, we want to highlight that, says Caroline Mattsson.”

More investments this autumn

The work with climate-smart travel does not end with the summer season. During Öland’s Harvest Festival, the organizers recommended bicycle loops to visit participating companies and farms. And in October, the newly started collaboration between Glasriket and SJ (the swedish national railway company) showcased a special autumn campaign under  the name Glasriket Glöder. The project also supports actors who want to apply for support to install charging infrastructure, so that it will be easier to travel by electric car.

About the project

The project Climate-smart travel in the tourism industry – examples from Småland and Öland is a 3-year project led by Trivector. The Kalmar County region is the project owner and has a steering committee consisting of representatives from Astrid Lindgren’s world, Nybro municipality, Öland’s Tourism Organization and Trivector Traffic AB. The project is partially financed by the ERDF.

Do you want to know more? Contact Caroline Mattsson, project manager, 010-456 56 43.

Read more about Behavior and dialogue, Walking and cycling or Collective transport.