Sweden has embraced ambitious emissions targets, a tendency also evident in its consumer choices and how it gathers and celebrates milestone events such as weddings. Read on and learn more about celebrating the wonders of nature at Swedish weddings.
Sweden is officially the top performer in environmental sustainability globally, as reported by Sustainable Governance Indicators. This country has embraced ambitious emissions targets, including a reduction of 70% in domestic transport by 2030 and net-zero emissions status by 2045. It impresses in terms of renewable energy, electric vehicles, and CO2 emissions programs. However, the passion for nature and eco-friendly practices extends beyond government policies, with population members looking for myriad ways to impact the planet positively. This tendency is evident in the choices they make as consumers and how they gather and celebrate milestone events such as weddings.
Embracing the Beauty of Nature
If you attend a Swedish wedding this year, expect to find numerous elements of biophilic design, including natural light, plants, and wildflower bouquets featuring locally sourced blooms. From birchwood and pine touches in table settings to hanging greenery instead of crystal chandeliers, nature is the backdrop for stunning Instagram-worthy wedding photos that celebrate the beauty of all things. Yet, nature is much more than a pretty symbol to Swedish people. The idea behind the penchant for biophilic design is captured by the author of Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv, who writes, “We cannot protect something we do not love, we cannot love what we do not know, and we cannot know what we do not see. Or hear. Or sense.” Fostering a love for nature is the first step toward sustainability because it gives people a reason to fight for its continued existence.
Reducing the Reliance on Resources
The average wedding in a typical developed country generates over 56 tons of carbon emissions, owing to factors such as travel, apparel, accessories, imported flowers, and beef dishes during wedding meals. The Swedes are well aware of this conundrum, and they are taking steps to embrace sustainability by renting decor instead of buying new items, relying on locally sourced flowers, and employing digital invitations and wedding seating charts. If, in the past, seating orders were indicated on elaborate charts displayed at the reception hall, today, this information is being sent digitally, so guests can instantly access their table without having to huddle at the hall. Beautifully designed e-mail communications are an excellent way to provide guests with key information beforehand and to eliminate the need for elaborate decorative and informative items that are thrown away once the event is over.
Sustainable Food
Food waste is one of the leading contributors to the climate crisis we are experiencing across the globe. The Swedes have long focused on a zero-waste concept, which reigns supreme in wedding menu design. These menus feature dishes made with local ingredients, less waste, and reusable dishes and utensils. Couples opt for seasonal foods (which require less energy) rather than food grown in greenhouses (which expend considerable energy on lighting and heating). Many couples also reduce meat consumption to lower carbon emissions and water use. This choice is backed by extensive research showing that plant-based options often generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions than animal products. Indeed, some studies show a 73% reduction in carbon emissions.
Choosing Eco-Friendly Venues
Selecting a green venue can significantly lower a wedding’s environmental impact since these venues have robust recycling and waste management practices. The Treehotel in Harads, for instance, offers couples the chance to marry among the treetops while serving guests locally sourced meals. Meanwhile, Sånga-Säby Hotel & Conference in Svartsjö marries organic dining to scenic lake views and sustainable practices. It also offers amenities like a pool and sauna, making it an excellent choice for sustainable couples who don’t want to skimp on the luxury experience. Rosendals Trädgård in Stockholm, with its organic garden venue showcasing the biodynamic cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and flowers, is another exceptional choice for couples wishing to delight guests with delicious, crisp, seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Sweden is known as one of the world’s most sustainable countries. Not only has the Swedish government adopted many sustainable practices, but everyday Swedes, too, are doing their share to lower their carbon footprints. Their passion for sustainability extends to memorable events such as weddings, where they seek ways to reduce energy consumption, recycle items, and choose zero-kilometer produce.
Celebrating the Wonders of Nature at Swedish Weddings, written dedicatedly for Daily Scandinavian by Karoline Gore. Karoline is a freelance writer from Stoke on Trent in the UK who left the corporate grind when she started a family and has never looked back. She enjoys contributing to a range of online publications on the topics that are important to her.
Feature image (top): © Peter Vahlersvik/iStock