Reducing the climate impact of holidays
In addition to his role with Ski Inn accommodation, Toivonen also works as a sustainability specialist for Rukakeskus Oy and Pyhätunturi Oy. Although sustainability had been developed within the companies long before the STF programme, Toivonen considers its collective impact particularly important. The STF programme brings together a wide range of stakeholders and sectors.
– Looking at the bigger picture, the STF programme supports sustainable tourism on a broad scale. An added incentive is that it opens doors to international sales and marketing channels that value sustainability, Toivonen says.
The sustainability programme for Ski Inn accommodation is shared with the Ruka and Pyhä ski resorts. Emissions from accommodation operations have been reduced alongside broader efforts to cut emissions across the resorts.
For Toivonen, the importance of sustainability work in winter tourism stems above all from ethical and moral responsibility: recognising it, acknowledging it and acting on it.
– Everyone must do their part to mitigate climate change. We want to be a responsible company, and we reduce our emissions as much as we can.
Toivonen believes sustainability remains a clear competitive advantage, bringing reputational benefits both domestically and internationally. At the moment, however, one of the strongest drivers behind sustainability work is cost savings.
– Cost efficiency, energy efficiency and resource efficiency go hand in hand with environmental responsibility. When you use fewer resources, you save money, Toivonen summarises.
The Ski Inn concept is built around the idea that guests do not need a private car during their stay. The destination is accessible by public transport, while accommodation, services and ski slopes are all located within easy reach. Compact development minimises land use and reduces impacts on the surrounding natural environment.
In terms of energy consumption, accommodation is emissions-free, as both heating and electricity are generated using renewable energy. Recycling opportunities are extensive and continue to be developed further.
– Overall, we make responsible holidays possible for our guests. Transport-related emissions, which account for a significant share of a holiday’s total carbon footprint, remain the traveller’s responsibility. These emissions can be reduced, for example, by travelling by train.
