The Future of Nordic Tourism: Challenges and Opportunities in a Warming World
Aryal, Monika; Raihan, Mohammad Nafis (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052616479
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025052616479
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This thesis examined how climate change reshaped Nordic tourism, creating both challenges and opportunities for industry. It highlighted the urgent need for adaptation as rising temperatures threatened traditional winter tourism while opening new possibilities for summer activities. The study addressed a gap in research by focusing on practical strategies for building climate resilience, particularly for vulnerable Arctic communities. Its main objectives were to assess climate impacts on key tourism sectors and evaluate adaptation measures implemented by businesses and governments. While centered on Finnish Lapland, the research acknowledged broader implications for Nordic tourism.
The theoretical framework combined Gunn’s (1994) 3 A’s model (Attractions, Amenities, Accessibility) with Elkington’s (1997) Triple Bottom Line, emphasizing the need to balance environmental protection, economic viability, and social equity. These theories revealed how climate change disrupted destination fundamentals while demonstrating how stakeholder collaboration and innovative practices could foster resilience. The framework also examined barriers to adaptation, such as infrastructure costs and cultural preservation challenges, while introducing solutions like renewable energy integration and Indigenous knowledge systems.
Methodologically, the study employed a qualitative interview with Arctic Snow Hotel and Glass Igloos provided practical insights into climate adaptations, while climate trends documented environmental changes. Thematic analysis identified key patterns in business responses.
Findings revealed significant climate impacts, including a 39% decline in snow depth and shortened winter seasons, which forced operators to invest 30% of their budgets in snowmaking. Successful adaptations emerged through year-round diversification (25% summer booking growth) and sustainability innovations (65% carbon footprint reduction at leading resorts). However, disparities persisted, with 40% of small businesses lacking climate adaptation resources.
The discussion synthesized these results, showing how theoretical frameworks explained both successful transitions (renewable energy adoption) and systemic challenges (transportation barriers). Practical recommendations emphasized policy support for rural businesses, Indigenous-led tourism models, and low-carbon infrastructure. Reflecting on the research process, the study demonstrated how climate vulnerability could spur innovation when communities were empowered. It concluded that Nordic tourism’s future hinged on transforming climate threats into opportunities through collaborative, equitable strategies that preserved both ecosystems and cultural heritage.
The theoretical framework combined Gunn’s (1994) 3 A’s model (Attractions, Amenities, Accessibility) with Elkington’s (1997) Triple Bottom Line, emphasizing the need to balance environmental protection, economic viability, and social equity. These theories revealed how climate change disrupted destination fundamentals while demonstrating how stakeholder collaboration and innovative practices could foster resilience. The framework also examined barriers to adaptation, such as infrastructure costs and cultural preservation challenges, while introducing solutions like renewable energy integration and Indigenous knowledge systems.
Methodologically, the study employed a qualitative interview with Arctic Snow Hotel and Glass Igloos provided practical insights into climate adaptations, while climate trends documented environmental changes. Thematic analysis identified key patterns in business responses.
Findings revealed significant climate impacts, including a 39% decline in snow depth and shortened winter seasons, which forced operators to invest 30% of their budgets in snowmaking. Successful adaptations emerged through year-round diversification (25% summer booking growth) and sustainability innovations (65% carbon footprint reduction at leading resorts). However, disparities persisted, with 40% of small businesses lacking climate adaptation resources.
The discussion synthesized these results, showing how theoretical frameworks explained both successful transitions (renewable energy adoption) and systemic challenges (transportation barriers). Practical recommendations emphasized policy support for rural businesses, Indigenous-led tourism models, and low-carbon infrastructure. Reflecting on the research process, the study demonstrated how climate vulnerability could spur innovation when communities were empowered. It concluded that Nordic tourism’s future hinged on transforming climate threats into opportunities through collaborative, equitable strategies that preserved both ecosystems and cultural heritage.