Introduction

The purpose of this Sustainability Policy is to describe how Lappvik works to contribute to a long-term sustainable tourism industry. The policy sets out our overarching principles and guidelines for environmental, social, cultural, and economic responsibility.

It is a living document that is reviewed and updated regularly and made available to employees, guests, suppliers, and other relevant stakeholders, including through publication in appropriate channels.

A. Clarifying Our Sustainability Work

Lappvik shall comply with applicable Swedish legislation and ensure that the necessary insurance, permits, and procedures are in place for the business. We work proactively with occupational health and safety, environmental protection, quality, and safety.

Our sustainability work shall be communicated openly to employees, guests, suppliers, and other relevant stakeholders. The guest experience is central to our work: we collect and analyse feedback and use the insights gained for continuous improvement.

All marketing shall be truthful and reflect actual experiences and locations. We strive to achieve a high level of accessibility for all visitors and are transparent when limitations exist. Employees shall be involved in our sustainability work and be given the opportunity to contribute to improvements.

We respect land, water, and property rights by complying with agreements and maintaining constructive dialogue with relevant landowners, associations, and local stakeholders. We shall provide accurate and respectful information about nature, culture, and the local community and, where relevant, participate in initiatives that strengthen the sustainability of the destination.

Safety is a consistent priority through risk assessments, clear procedures, relevant training, and information for guests.

B. Social and Economic Responsibility in the Local Community

We work to maximise the social and economic benefits for the local community while minimising negative impacts. Where possible, we support the local community by participating in or contributing to initiatives that create local value.

We strive to recruit locally, offer safe and fair working conditions, and comply with applicable agreements and regulations. When making purchases and entering into partnerships, we prioritise local suppliers and contractors where possible and appropriate, in order to strengthen the local economy and reduce unnecessary transportation.

Lappvik has zero tolerance for exploitation, discrimination, harassment, and persecution. We shall actively safeguard children and other vulnerable groups.

All employees and guests shall be treated with respect and be given equal opportunities regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

Our operations shall be conducted with consideration for the capacity and needs of the local community, and we seek cooperation where it can create mutual benefits.

C. Cultural Heritage – Protection and Respect

We encourage respectful interaction between guests and local culture and shall plan activities so that they do not disrupt traditions, living environments, or local integrity.

We work to protect both tangible and intangible cultural heritage and communicate information about nature, history, and culture accurately and with appropriate nuance.

Unauthorised handling of or trade in cultural artefacts is not tolerated, and guests are encouraged to leave natural and cultural objects where they are found.

D. Environmental Responsibility – Minimising Negative Impact

Lappvik shall work systematically with environmental issues through goals, procedures, and areas for improvement that are reviewed regularly.

We prioritise sustainable purchasing and resource-efficient solutions, reduce the use of single-use items where possible, work to prevent food waste, and avoid unnecessary consumption.

Energy and water consumption shall be reduced through efficient systems and procedures and, where possible, through the use of renewable energy.

We work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants and plan transportation in as sustainable a way as possible.

Waste shall be sorted and minimised, and wastewater, chemicals, and other harmful substances shall be handled responsibly in accordance with legal requirements and industry best practice.

We protect biodiversity and natural values, work to prevent the spread of invasive species, and adapt visits to sensitive natural areas according to the carrying capacity of the environment.

Interaction with wildlife shall take place on nature’s terms. Feeding, disturbing, or keeping wild animals in captivity is not permitted.

We do not support trade in endangered species or products derived from them, and we inform guests about applicable rules and regulations.

Follow-up and Continuous Improvement

This policy shall be reviewed at least annually. Goals, results, and actions shall be documented and communicated internally, and lessons learned shall be used to further develop Lappvik’s sustainability work.

As part of the review process, the policy shall be revised when necessary to ensure that it remains relevant and continues to support systematic improvement in line with the principles of the Responsible Tourism Västerbotten template and GSTC standards.