Norway self drive holiday

Norway is home to a variety of mammals and since the 20th century efforts have been made to re-introduce and protect many species such as the Artic fox and musk oxen. Polar bear populations in the north of the country have largely remained stable since hunting them was banned in 1973. Several national and international wildlife conservation organisations are active in Norway, seeking to protect existing populations and encouraging breeding programmes for animals such as the Eurasian lynx, Europe's only big cat.

There is strong support for sorting waste domestically and tourists are encouraged to do the same. Since a deposit scheme for glass bottles and cans was introduced in the country nearly 96% of these are returned for recycling. in the early 21st century the government introduced a manifesto entitled "Sustainable Norway" aimed at the tourist industry to raise awareness of the issue and put sustainability front and centre of new and existing tourisme developments.

Norway is a friendly and welcoming country and accommodation used on the itinerary is provided by the Thon group who are a Norwegian company with a strong social responsibility ethos. Each hotels encourages recycling and by doing so guests can earn points to contribute a lottery whose funds support the Norwegian Red Cross. Enironmentally responsible recycling is encouraged throughout to reduce waste and save energy, whilst the food served comes from sustainable sources.