Tourism Boom in Finnish Lapland Raises Concerns Over Sustainability

Rovaniemi, the self-proclaimed hometown of Santa Claus, faces challenges from record-breaking visitor numbers and climate-related impacts.

Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, saw a record 1.2 million overnight stays in 2023, a 30% increase from the previous year, driven by its appeal as a winter destination.
The influx of tourists, particularly during the holiday season, has led to housing shortages, rising rental prices, and long-term residents being displaced by short-term accommodations.
Local activists are calling for stricter enforcement of Finnish laws that prohibit residential buildings from being used for commercial lodging, while some residents benefit financially from short-term rentals.
Climate change threatens the region's winter tourism, with warming temperatures causing reduced snowfall, icy conditions, and challenges for both tourists and wildlife such as reindeer.
To maintain its appeal, some resorts in Rovaniemi are using artificial snow, but this solution raises environmental concerns, including high water usage and ecological impacts.