Copenhagen's Eco-Friendly Treasure Hunt Rewards Tourists for Sustainable Actions

As of October 5th, 2025, the Danish capital of Copenhagen has been named the world's happiest city for the second year in a row. One key factor behind this accolade is the city's pioneering CopenPay program, which incentivizes visitors to make environmentally-conscious choices during their stay.

The CopenPay scheme, launched in 2024, rewards tourists for a variety of sustainable actions. Visitors who arrive by train, for example, can earn vouchers for free meals from the "Too Good To Go" app, which partners with businesses to prevent food waste. Throughout their stay, tourists can also earn perks like free coffees, guided tours, and even complimentary boat trips by proving they've used public transport, picked up litter, or engaged in other eco-friendly behaviors.

Two teenage girls, Tara and Emma, recently experienced the benefits of CopenPay firsthand during a family trip to Copenhagen. Initially skeptical about the litter-picking aspect, the girls soon embraced the "eco-friendly treasure hunt" and competed to be the top litter collector. Their efforts were rewarded with free ice cream and a sense of pride in contributing to a cleaner city.

Beyond the CopenPay program, Copenhagen impresses visitors with its commitment to sustainability, green spaces, and work-life balance. The city's innovative approach to urban planning and quality of life has solidified its status as a global leader in livability.