As tourism continues to grow, so does the need to rethink how destinations can be both welcoming and sustainable. The Nurturing Nature project—initiated by Geopark Det Sydfynske Øhav and partners across Denmark and Germany—champions a regenerative model of tourism. Instead of merely minimising harm, the project is about giving back: restoring ecosystems, empowering communities, and creating experiences where visitors and locals together invest in the place.

The article highlights that Denmark has seen a rise in the number of foreign visitors, especially from southern Europe, partly due to climate trends. This increasing tourist pressure makes initiatives like Nurturing Nature timely and necessary. The project received approximately 10.1 million DKK in funding via the Interreg 6A programme, with contributions from public and partner organisations.

Nine partners will collaborate across borders—including NGOs, destination and conservation bodies, universities, and regional authorities—to implement the project’s vision. Their tasks include training local facilitators in co-creation, developing at least 12 sustainable and regenerative tourism offers in participating communities, and crafting marketing stories centred on responsible travel. The aim is to balance the growth of visitor interest with care for nature, heritage and local quality of life.

By weaving together ecology, culture and community, Nurturing Nature positions itself as more than a tourism product. It aspires to shift the mindset of both visitors and hosts—from passive consumption to active stewardship of place. For a detailed look at the plans, document details, and partner roles, the original announcement is available to read on Geopark Det Sydfynske Øhav’s website (available in Danish only).

#Sustainable tourism #Regenerative tourism #Destination management