Environmental concerns in nature-based events: the permit process for organised outdoor recreation and sport

Figures & data

Table 1. Number of applications between 2011 and 2020 in Jämtland County, categorised by type.

Event type
Motorsport (road)	104
Organised outdoor activities	92
Bicycle (road)	44
Multisport	31
Running and trail running	28
Dogsledding	19
Cross-country skiing	15
Bicycle (terrain)	14
Snowmobile	13
Motorsport (terrain)	11
Orienteering	8
Motorsport (water)	5
Roller Skis	5
Ski Mountaineering	3
Soapbox car race	1
Total	393

Figure 1. Geographic distribution of events in Jämtland County, Sweden.

Table 2. Impacts described in the permit applications and number of events that contained each impact.

Described impacts
Reindeer-related issues	89
Trash and litter	36
Impact on nature reserves	35
Wear and tear on the ground from motor vehicles	26
Chemicals and fuels	25
Wear and tear on the ground (non-motorised)	24
Water-related issues	19
Wear on heritage monuments	19
Wildlife disturbances	19
Sanitation	14
Hunting season disturbances	13
Wear and tear on trails	10
Noise	8
Terrain damage	8
Crowding	6
Snow-related issues (e.g. snow compacting)	5
Sensitive period	3
Cumulative effects	2
Disturbances from the audience	2
Damage to ecosystems	2
Greenhouse gas emissions	2