Going lighter into nature

Choosing how you travel is one of the most effective ways to reduce the climate impact of a trip. Cycling and walking are virtually emission-free and also beneficial for your health. For destinations farther away, consider public transport or carpooling instead of driving alone. The emissions from public transport are shared among all passengers.

“Transport accounts for around 20% of Finland’s carbon dioxide emissions, and approximately 95% of these emissions originate from road transport. Passenger cars are responsible for slightly more than half of road transport greenhouse gas emissions.”
(Source: Ilmasto-opas.fi, in Finnish)

You can reduce the climate impact of your trip by choosing a destination close to home. Local natural areas provide the same health and wellbeing benefits as more distant destinations, often with a significantly lower climate impact. Many nearby destinations can be reached by public transport, bicycle, or even on foot – sometimes an excellent outdoor destination is right on your doorstep.

Practical tips for exploring nearby nature:

• Stay local – the benefits of nature are not determined by distance
• Walk, cycle, or use public transport whenever possible – many destinations can be reached without a car, and the journey itself becomes part of the experience
• Frequent, short visits to nature support wellbeing
• Experience familiar places in different seasons – nearby destinations offer new experiences throughout the year
• Explore lesser-known sites – you may discover quieter hidden gems close to home

Trains and buses often take you surprisingly close to outdoor destinations. If walking or cycling is not an option, travelling by train is generally the lowest-emission alternative (Ilmasto-opas.fi, in Finnish). The emissions from public transport are shared among all passengers, meaning the climate impact per traveller is usually lower than travelling by private car.

Practical tips for travelling by public transport:

• Choose the train or bus whenever possible
• Check the nearest stop or station and any walking distance in advance
• Allow some flexibility in your schedule for the return journey
• Pack light – it makes travelling easier and more comfortable
• The final part of your journey may be done on foot or by bicycle

For your next trip, consider a destination that is easily accessible by public transport.
Useful resources:

• Nature by train (vr.fi)
• Outdoor Express – nature by bus (outdoorexpress.fi)

Not every outdoor destination can be reached by public transport, and sometimes a car is the most practical option.
Carpooling reduces the climate impact of a trip – the more people travelling in the same vehicle, the smaller the impact per passenger. Travelling together also offers an opportunity to share expectations and experiences with others.

Practical tips for travelling by car:

• Combine several trips into one journey
• Avoid making long-distance day trips that require extensive driving back and forth
• Make the journey part of the outdoor experience, not just a transfer

Most importantly, get outdoors. A great trip is not defined by distance but by the experience itself – a nearby forest, shoreline, or fell can provide the same sense of wellbeing. Even small choices make a difference. Every trip is an opportunity to travel a little more sustainably.