Celebrating Earth Day: Slovenia’s steps towards sustainability

Slovenia is one of the most environmentally friendly countries in the world. According to the Good Country Index, Slovenia ranks 4th among 154 countries in terms of its positive contribution to the planet and the climate. It boasts vast forests, rich biodiversity, numerous protected areas and parks, exceptional water wealth and high-quality drinking water.

When it comes to sustainability, 2016 was a milestone for Slovenia. Back then, Slovenia was the world’s first country to be declared a green destination, based on the assessment by Green Destinations. It established 96% compliance across 100 criteria. This was the moment when Slovenia was brought to the spotlight as one of the leading countries in terms of sustainable tourism, although the sustainable path of Slovenian tourism is much older. 

In fact, we could say that Slovenia is a country with a green soul. A sustainable way of living is deeply rooted in our thinking and Slovenians have long been aware that sustainability is the only right way to go, which is why it has been our priority in different development fields, from energy, transport and waste to water resource management, biodiversity, climate change adaptation and also tourism. There are numerous projects that showcase commitment to sustainability and the fact that a sustainable approach has long played an essential role in the development of Slovenian tourism. 

The most prominent project carried out by the Slovenian Tourist Board is definitely the Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism, the internationally recognised and multi-awarded tool for sustainable tourism development. The SLOVENIA GREEN LABEL is a promise of a green future and it brings together all efforts directed toward the sustainable development of tourism in Slovenia, offers tools to destinations and service providers that enable them to evaluate, improve and promote their sustainability endeavours. 

Today, the Scheme has more than 280 members, including destinations, accommodation providers, natural parks, tourist agencies, attractions, restaurants and beaches.

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But the Green Scheme is by far not the only project that showcases Slovenia's commitment to sustainaibility. Some of the projects and concrete steps Slovenia has made towards sustainable growth include the membership of Slovenian destinations in The international network of Mountaineering Villages. The network currently consists of almost 30 villages in Austria, Italy, Germany and Slovenia. In Slovenia, Jezersko and Luče are among them. These villages boasts tranquil mountain environments, compactness, a living mountaineering culture and an abundance of opportunities for environmentally friendly outdoor activities. 

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Another project worth mentioning is the Zero Waste Initiative: Nine Slovenian municipalities joined the Zero Waste Initiative to address the problems they have with large quantities of waste. With systematic work, the municipalities prevented the generation of about 15,000 tonnes of mixed municipal waste and thus saved more than EUR 3 million. Waste is also being minimised at a number of popular local events. Near Bled, you can visit the first Zero Waste Hotel in the middle of pristine nature.

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In light of this year's Earth Day theme, "Invest in Our Planet", the project of eliminating single-use plastic is definitely worth mentioning. A change in the mindset of providers as well as of consumers is needed and here Slovenian tourism providers and destinations, as ambassadors of sustainability, play a major role. 

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Browse through the green stories on our website: 

Green instructions for visiting Slovenia

Everything you need to know for a green and responsible visit to Slovenia.

Green instructions for visiting Slovenia

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Green story of Slovenia

Plan your holidays in green.

Green story of Slovenia

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Slovenia green

Slovenia green

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Slovenia – a land of healthy and clean waters

The abundance of water resources and premium drinking water are among Slovenia’s main advantages.

Slovenia – a land of healthy and clean waters

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The best stories from Slovenian forests

Choose an unforgettable forest experience in a land where nearly 60% of the surface area is covered by forests.

The best stories from Slovenian forests

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Visit the top sights in the "Slovenia Green" natural parks in a sustainable manner

Nature parks welcome you into their embrace. Visit them in a sustainable way.

Visit the top sights in the "Slovenia Green" natural parks in a sustainable manner

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10 directions for responsible trips in the wild

Enjoy nature responsibly.

10 directions for responsible trips in the wild

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Nature parks

Discover a wealth of various plant and tree species.

Nature parks

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Sustainable mobility in Slovenia

Choose a green mode of transport to travel around Slovenia.

Sustainable mobility in Slovenia

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Slovenia Green, the award-winning documentary

If time allows, watch also the award-winning promotional documentary, Slovenia Green, which presents Slovenia's green story and brings you closer to the stories of locals, destination representatives and tourism providers.

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