National Park Weerribben-Wieden received the Charter for Sustainable Tourism at the beginning of October. This international recognition is awarded to parks that are committed to sustainable tourism. The park is now part of a European network of sustainable destinations. “A great recognition for the steps we have already taken,” according to Sharon Jagt of the national park.
This award shows that National Park Weerribben-Wieden is developing into a sustainable destination, where nature, livability, economic development, and a valuable visitor experience go hand in hand. The official presentation of the Charter will take place on November 19 in the European Parliament in Brussels.
Strengthening, preserving, and stimulating
The park is working on strengthening nature and biodiversity, preserving cultural history and landscape elements, stimulating sustainable transport, and offering recreation that fits the identity of the area. In addition, there are numerous initiatives that involve residents and entrepreneurs in the park, ranging from community evenings, regional dialogues, and educational programs to the course "Hospitable in the Landscape" for entrepreneurs.
Promise
At the same time, the Charter is also a promise. Over the next five years, the national park, together with residents, entrepreneurs, governments, and organizations, will take new steps to further realize this ambition. With a joint strategy and concrete actions, the park will further develop as a sustainable destination. National Park Weerribben-Wieden has found that the Charter for Sustainable Tourism can deliver valuable projects. The park has received the charter once before, which led, among other things, to the start of the course "Hosts/hostesses of the landscape," mutual collaborations, and increased attention to sustainable mobility.
More information
More information about the Charter for Sustainable Tourism and how National Park Weerribben-Wieden has approached this can be found on the national park's website.