Copenhagen has recently earned the EarthCheck Sustainable Destination Certification, a distinction held by only a select number of locations globally.
This internationally recognised third-party accreditation further validates the Danish capital’s long-standing commitment to climate action, particularly within the tourism and meetings sector.
The certification is the result of a close partnership between Wonderful Copenhagen and the City of Copenhagen and aligns seamlessly with the city’s tourism strategy, Copenhagen, All Inclusive, which places sustainability at its core.
The EarthCheck framework is known for its scientific rigour and credibility, offering structured pathways to accelerate and document a destination’s transition to net-zero tourism.
“This certification is not just a milestone — it’s a mechanism that compels systemic change across our tourism ecosystem,” said Søren Tegen Pedersen, CEO of Wonderful Copenhagen. “By aligning strategy with measurable action, we’re not only meeting international expectations but also shaping a more responsible future for urban tourism.”
Copenhagen’s sustainable tourism efforts extend well beyond policy. More than 70 local tourism businesses have been actively supported in their journey toward sustainability certification through initiatives such as Sustainable Choice CPHand the Partnership for Sustainable Tourism Development, backed by the Danish Board of Business Development.
The recognition adds to an impressive list of achievements for the city, which currently ranks third on the Global Destination Sustainability Index.
Additionally, Wonderful Copenhagen was the first destination management organisation to earn a Green Tourism Organisation certification.
This milestone also supports Denmark’s National Tourism Strategy, which aspires to ensure that all destination companies and 70% of accommodation providers in the country are sustainability certified by 2030.
With the next phase of the CopenPay initiative launching in summer 2025, Copenhagen continues to set the benchmark for cities aiming to blend urban vibrancy with ecological responsibility.