B Corp certified Nordic travel company 50 Degrees North is proud to announce the launch of its new Impact Fund, investing 10% of their annual profits into environmental and social projects. With its headquarters in Norway and offices in Australia and North America, this initiative reflects the company's commitment to regenerative tourism, combining a global perspective with local impact, and actively contributing to restoring and revitalising the destinations it touches. The Impact Fund aims to support projects that align with 50 Degrees North's environmental and social objectives, fostering positive change in the Nordic region and beyond.

 “Regenerative tourism goes beyond sustainability,” said Jerrine Mullen, Sustainability Manager at 50 Degrees North. “It's about actively restoring and revitalising the places we visit, with the hope of leaving them better than before. By focusing on environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and community wellbeing, we aim to make a lasting, positive impact.”

The first recipients of support through the 950,000 NOK Impact Fund are:

La Humla Suse

Since 2023, 50 Degrees North has supported La Humla Suse, an organisation dedicated to promoting biodiversity by protecting pollinators, particularly bumblebees. La Humla Suse collaborates with organisations and communities to create pollinator-friendly environments, offering services such as installing insect hotels, adapting green spaces, and running workshops for employees and communities. This collaboration exemplifies 50 Degrees North's commitment to fostering biodiversity and actively contributing to nature. 

“This partnership allows us to engage directly with local communities through pollinator workshops and volunteer activities,” said Satu Vänskä-Westgarth, Co-Owner and Director of Product at 50 Degrees North. “We're proud to support La Humla Suse's efforts to create vibrant, blooming pollinator spaces that benefit both nature and people.”

Seaforester

Seaforester, an Earthshot Prize finalist, works to restore the lost seaweed forests along the Norwegian coast. These efforts are critical for preserving biodiversity and establishing carbon sinks that mitigate climate change. By supporting Seaforester's new project in Norway, 50 Degrees North is contributing to the restoration of marine ecosystems and the communities that rely on them.

Nærøyfjord World Heritage Park

Located in the iconic western fjords of Norway, this UNESCO-listed site focuses on nature- and culture-based community development. As one of 50 Degrees North's key destinations, the Nærøyfjord region holds special significance. The company's funding will support initiatives that balance tourism with environmental stewardship, ensuring the region's heritage is preserved for future generations. 50 Degrees North is working directly with the park to identify and support projects that protect the environment while enriching the visitor experience.

Local Partnerships in Øyer

In addition to its main partners, 50 Degrees North supports several local organisations near its headquarters in Øyer, Norway. These groups focus on fostering community engagement through youth sports, music, and cultural activities, reinforcing the company's commitment to nurturing local communities. 

All of these partnerships are part of a broader commitment to sustainability, which includes employee-led volunteer initiatives, carbon offsetting, and an ambitious Climate Action Plan designed to drive emission reductions across the company. In an era when the travel industry must adapt to a changing world, 50 Degrees North's Impact Fund serves as a reminder that tourism can be a force for regeneration and positive change, supporting biodiversity, empowering communities, and promoting cultural heritage. 

For more information, please visit https://fiftydegreesnorth.com/sustainable-tourism 

Media Enquiries

Jerrine Mullen

jm@fiftydegreesnorth.com

About 50 Degrees North

50 Degrees North is a Nordic travel company dedicated to creating authentic, responsible travel experiences. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, the company champions regenerative tourism that gives back to the destinations it serves.