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For one weekend in April 2019, eleven popular tourist sites and attractions in the Faroe Islands closed to tourists. Why? Because we are keen to keep our green islands unspoiled. -
In the village of Gjógv, a path from the village to one of the scenic viewpoints will be mended, and a fence erected to keep hikers safe -
The campaign will work with local villagers to identify several areas where a little TLC will help to preserve the infrastructure
WHY CLOSE THE FAROE ISLANDS FOR MAINTENANCE
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The fragile natural environment in some popular locations has recently felt the pressure of an increase in visitor numbers. These pristine places need a helping hand to ensure that they remain so.
Our idea was to close for maintenance and open for voluntourism over one weekend in April 2019, where eleven popular tourist sites will be closed for regular tourists but open for voluntourists. The then Faroes’ Prime Minister, Aksel V. Johannesen, joined the campaign by inviting volunteers to lend a helping hand. The initiative was successful and well-received, so we repeated and expanded it every year.
The then Faroes’ Prime Minister, Aksel V. Johannesen, joined the campaign by inviting volunteers to lend a helping hand.
The campaign works with municipalities and tourism offices across the country. It involves locals identifying areas in need to preserve the infrastructure, which would pave the way for a sustainable future for the islands.
“We were very interested in taking part in regenerative tourism, which is leaving behind a contribution like all the volunteers are doing here at Closed for Maintenance, so not just to come as a consumer but instead to come and leave something behind.” - explains Geraldine Boland, 2022 volunteer from Ireland
Click the image below to see the documentary about Closed for Maintenance
The documentary is produced by the Faroese national TV station Kringvarp Føroyar in May 2023.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE?
To participate, you only need to sign up and buy a plane ticket to the Faroe Islands (note that you must pay for your flights to/from the Faroes in our registration process). We will take care of the rest during the maintenance period, including accommodation, food, and transport.
We hope you will come and help us maintain the Faroe Islands!
AWARDS
We are incredibly proud of the "Closed for Maintenance, Open for Voluntourism" project's overwhelming recognition on the global stage. With 12 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze, and three shortlisted awards from the prestigious Cannes Lions, including one in the highly competitive Sustainability category, this initiative has been celebrated as a pioneer in environmental stewardship and innovative sustainability practices.
In addition, we are honoured to have received a Yellow Pencil in PR at the D&AD Awards, further cementing the project's impact and excellence in both public relations and sustainability.
Gold: European Excellence Awards 2019
2 gold & 1 silver: Clio Awards 2019
2 gold: Epica Awards 2019
Bronze: Eurobest 2020
Yellow pencil 2020
Each of these awards reminds us of the positive impact that the project has made on the environment. We remain committed to our sustainability mission and look forward to continuing this journey of ecological stewardship, inspiring others along the way.
