Ten objectives for outdoor recreation policy

The overall objective of the Swedish outdoor recreation policy is to promote opportunities to be outdoors in nature and to enjoy outdoor recreation. The outdoor recreation policy promotes opportunities to be outdoors in nature and to enjoy outdoor recreation, where the Right of Public Access is fundamental. Here, access to nature, the interest of individuals and the commitment of civil society organisations are important conditions for people to participate in outdoor recreation. This is the starting point for the ten objectives of the outdoor recreation policy that was adopted by the government in December 2012.

With these, the Swedish EPA aims to ensure that all people should have the opportunity to be in and enjoy nature, and cultural landscapes and that there is attractive urban nature for outdoor recreation. This is fostered through the Right of Public Access which is fundamental for outdoor recreation. This means that the Right of Public Access is safeguarded and that the general public, landowners, associations, and companies have good knowledge of it.

Evidence-based knowledge about initiatives that create conditions for outdoor recreation and promote health, must be compiled and disseminated to municipalities, county councils, non-profit organisations, and other relevant stakeholders. This would lead to increased collaboration between organisations and encourage more people to take part in outdoor recreation activities coupled with established research and statistics collection on outdoor recreation. As it also aims that protected areas of value for outdoor recreation provide the basis for outdoor activities, spatial planning and land use must consider the need of access to attractive nature and cultural landscapes for outdoor recreation.

Outdoor recreation and nature- and culture-based tourism contribute to strengthening local and regional attractiveness and promoting sustainable development and regional growth. This is the basis for pre-schools, schools, and after-school centres encouraged to carry out outdoor recreation activities and educate about the conditions for a healthy environment and sustainable development.