Greenland’s new tourism law could create no-go zones

According to the Polar Journal, Greenland is considering a new tourism law to manage the rising number of visitors in its ecologically and culturally sensitive areas. The proposed law, under public consultation, would use a zoning system to classify areas into green, yellow, and red zones, restricting access in high-sensitivity areas. This approach aims to protect Greenland’s pristine landscapes, with local operators likely gaining preference over large international tours. Public feedback from stakeholders will help shape the law, which could transform tourism by focusing on sustainable, low-impact travel experiences.

• Areas would be divided into green, yellow, and red zones, with red zones highly restricted to preserve fragile ecosystems.
• Restrictions may limit large international cruises, favoring smaller local operators to minimize environmental impact.
• The law underscores Greenland’s commitment to sustainable tourism, balancing visitor access with conservation.
• Stakeholders, including local communities and businesses, are encouraged to provide feedback to ensure the law reflects Greenland’s unique needs.
• With potentially restricted access to iconic areas, the law could shift the tourism landscape, emphasizing immersive, small-scale travel experiences.