When visiting the Danish capital, most tourists notice one alarming thing. This is, despite the fact that most Copenhagen inhabitants live within the walking distance of an exercise facility such as a swimming pool or gym, they still choose to cycle everywhere. The reason is not usually for extra fitness, yet for the attitude of many Danes who take being green to be a very important factor of modern life.
Staying on the subject of transport, Copenhagen boasts the least carbon dioxide-emitting buses on the planet and regular drivers are generally looked upon in a less than favourable manner. The fact that Copenhagen is a world leader in environment protection does not only derive from the Danish attitude to transport, yet to a host of other factors.
In terms of Copenhagen’s meeting facilities, it is worth noting that close to two thirds of them have a strategy for reducing water and energy usage; 60% use environmentally friendly cleaning and washing products; more than 50% engage in waste separation at source and serve organic produce at meals; and 16% keep CO2 accounts. The city’s so-called eco-labelled hotels are famous for their CO2 reduction policies and recycled furniture.
When arriving in Denmark by plane, one should notice the vast array of windmills surrounding the capital city. Indeed, Denmark is the world leader in wind power and has a 40% hold of the world market. Where else can one see people swimming in a capital city canal or harbour? The fact is that the Danes are so keen on being green that Copenhagen can be described as one of the planet’s greenest and cleanest places to visit.
Denmark similarly holds the world record for the consumption of organic goods. Currently, 45% of all foodstuffs consumed in Copenhagen are organic. Even some of the city’s most famous and most expensive restaurants pride themselves on serving up only organic food.
