Sustainability & Responsibility at Hile Outdoor
At Hile Outdoor, responsibility isn’t a side project, it’s part of everything we do. Our services are powered by human energy: skiing, snowshoeing, and walking in the wild landscapes of Finnish Lapland. We minimize emissions, waste, and noise by keeping our activities simple, local, and nature-based.
We are in the process of getting certified for our work for sustainability and responsibility.
Here is what we have done so far:
Caring for Nature
We operate with deep respect for nature and wildlife, following Metsähallitus guidelines. Activities take place mainly on snow or marked trails to minimize erosion. We educate our guests on biodiversity and participate in local invasive species removal campaigns.
Caring for Climate
Our activities are human-powered, skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, with minimal transport use. The home office runs on geothermal heating and energy efficient appliances. We participate in regional climate adaptation projects such as CLAP – Climate change communication and adaptation of Arctic protected areas.
Caring for People
We are deeply involved in the local community, from organizing holidays for low-income families to contributing to climate-smart tourism planning for Pallas–Yllästunturi National Park. All operations comply with Finnish laws and safety guidelines (TUKES). We ensure safety, inclusion, and accessibility, offering adaptive outdoor experiences and welcoming everyone equally.
Caring for Culture
We respect Sámi culture and follow the Sámi Tourism Ethical Guidelines. We correct misconceptions, discourage exploitative “shamanic” tourism, and guide guests toward authentic local experiences like Samiland and Raekallio gallery. We never sell or promote fake cultural artefacts.
Food & Products
We prioritize local, Finnish, and fair-trade products. Berries for our blueberry pie you might get to try on our trips are handpicked in Levi, and coffee and cocoa are always Fairtrade. Equipment is often second-hand from local rentals, and snacks are served with Kupilka’s Finnish eco dishware.
Caring for Water
We use only clean Finnish tap water and efficient fixtures at home. Wastewater goes to the municipal treatment system, ensuring no pollution. Our guests learn that Finland’s tap water is among the purest in the world.
Reducing Waste
No disposable plastics or bottled water are used. Reusable dishes and refillable bottles are the norm, and waste is sorted according to Kittilä municipality’s recycling system. Clients are encouraged to follow zero-waste outdoor principles.
Reducing Pollution
No snowmobiles, no noise, no air pollution, all movement is under human power. We use modern fuel-efficient cars only when necessary and avoid ski waxes containing harmful chemicals by using skin-based skis.
Good Employment
We operate responsibly as a (solo) entrepreneur, continuously developing our skills in guiding, photography, and digital marketing. We follow fair labor principles and will apply equal-opportunity and well-being practices if hiring in the future.
Management & Information
We communicate our values openly both online and during tours. Feedback is gathered directly and through public reviews, and a sustainability report summary will be published once certification is confirmed. Personal lifestyle choices align with your company’s values from buying second-hand to living close to nature.
