Metsäkartano’s Commitment to Sustainability
At Metsäkartano Youth Center, we are deeply committed to sustainability and responsible practices that respect both our environment and community.
Our dedication is reflected in the following key areas:
Environmental Responsibility
· Renewable Energy Usage: We utilize 100% carbon free electricity and heat our facilities with locally sourced bioenergy, minimizing our carbon footprint.
· Resource Conservation: We actively monitor and strive to reduce our consumption of water, electricity, and heating energy. Unused spaces have their temperatures lowered to conserve energy.
· Eco-Friendly Cleaning Practices: Our cleaning processes employ environmentally certified chemicals used minimally and appropriately. We avoid unnecessary laundry and room cleaning, and single-use dishes are used only in rare exceptions.
· Waste Management: We emphasize waste sorting and recycling, aiming to reduce waste generation. Whenever possible, we refurbish and purchase used furniture, ensuring proper recycling of items no longer in use.
Sustainable Food Practices
· Local and Organic Ingredients: Our restaurant prioritizes local and organic raw materials, sourcing directly from producers and gatherers.
· Waste Reduction Initiatives: To minimize food waste, we have implemented a recipe program for precise meal planning, organize leftover food days, allow staff to purchase surplus food, and encourage guests to take only what they can consume.
Cultural and Community Engagement
· Local Products and Crafts: Our souvenir shop features local products and handicrafts, supporting regional artisans.
· Cultural Programs: We incorporate elements of local culture into our programs, such as traditional log floating heritage and blacksmithing.
· Positive Nature Experiences: We foster a positive connection with nature by providing guests with experiences and activities in the natural environment.
Certifications and Collaborations
· Sustainable Travel Finland (STF) Label: We have been awarded the STF label, recognizing our valuable and long-term efforts in sustainable tourism.
· Green Key Certification: This global environmental certification signifies our commitment to environmental responsibility.
· Social Enterprise Mark: As a Social Enterprise, we reinvest our profits into developing youth work.
· Collaborative Efforts: We actively participate in regional sustainable tourism planning and development, working with organizations like Forest and Park Service and adhering to sustainable nature tourism principles.
Our Certifications and Partnerships
Sustainable Travel Finland - Visit Finland
Social Enterprise Mark - Suomalainen työ
Steps to Organic - Luomuravintola.fi
