Tromsø Launches New Guidelines Inspired by AECO
Posted: 09 January. 2026
Tromsø municipality’s newly launched guidelines for tour vehicles—especially those serving Northern Lights tourism—are an important step toward formalizing responsible practices in the region’s adventure tourism sector. The guidelines are comprehensive and practical, reflecting core principles that AECO has promoted across the Arctic: legal compliance and safety, community engagement, responsible operations, and environmental considerations.
The guidelines are presented as minimum standards, aligning with AECO’s philosophy of setting high expectations and encouraging continuous improvement across the industry.
In a radio interview with NRK Troms on January 8, the municipality’s sustainability advisor, Helga Bårdsdatter, highlighted the inspiration: “The guidelines are based on work that the expedition cruise industry has been doing for more than 20 years. If you look at how AECO operates, this is the model they follow across the Arctic.”
Tromsø’s guidelines for tour vehicles demonstrate how AECO’s work extends beyond its own membership, helps shape best practices for the wider tourism sector, and reinforces our role as a trusted model for responsible tourism in the Arctic.
AECO’s Best Practices Reflected in Tromsø’s Guidelines
Legal Compliance
- Emphasizes adherence to Norwegian laws and regulations, including those of the Labor Inspection Authority, Police, Public Roads Administration, and Tax Administration—mirroring AECO’s multistakeholder approach to compliance and safety.
Responsible Operations
- Requires the use of designated parking, respect for local traffic rules, and collaboration among operators to minimize disruption.
- Emphasizes winter driving competence, guest safety, and minimizing environmental impact—principles central to AECO’s operational guidelines.
Environmental Considerations
- Calls for “leave no trace” practices, responsible campfire use, and strict waste management.
- Urges operators to educate guests about local customs, drone regulations, and respectful behavior, echoing AECO’s emphasis on environmental protection and cultural sensitivity.
Community Engagement
- Developed in collaboration with residents, authorities, and research institutions.
- Reflects a locally anchored process that aligns with AECO’s community engagement approach.
Learn More
Read and download the guidelines on the Tromsø municipality’s website.