It
is an undeniable fact that a large amount of valuable land close to Copenhagen
has been given over to forest. When trying to understand the reasoning behind
this decision, I believe it is important to consider two things: Denmark’s appreciation
of history, and Denmark’s appreciation for nature and the outdoors.
On
most of our visits I have seen an appreciation for Danish history. The
Hirshsprung collection is an obvious example—with an entire gallery dedicated
to honoring and displaying historical works of art that depict the beauty of
the Danish landscape. Even sites such as Lejre and the fortification parks
display how Copenhagen is dedicated to restoring and protecting greenspace that
holds an important place in Danish history. Forests can also be considered
important historical landmarks. For example, forests have been used for
centuries as hunting grounds for kings and royals. Therefore, giving valuable
land over to forest is not just consistent with Denmark’s outlook on historical
landmarks, but also explains why this land would be preserved, rather than
converted into agricultural land or commercial space.
On
the many trips and visits we have made to various greenspaces around
Copenhagen, I have witnessed countless examples of how the importance of nature
is instilled from a very young age. On our tour around Lejre, our group even
saw a group of young children on a similar tour, using the outdoor museum as
their classroom. Additionally, touring the parks, you see a high level of care
and maintenance for nature as well. Almost all of the greenspace provided in is
being used. All of the parks are filled with families, children and adults, and
every garden is well maintained and cared for. There are even waitlists that
extend for years, just so people can have the chance to own their own plot of
green land. All of this signifies that greenspace is entrenched in Danish
culture. Therefore, it only makes sense that valuable land has been given up to
forests. I do not believe that the Danes, or the Danish government view this
land as wasted. On the contrary, I think that protected green areas and forests
only further contribute to the happiness and enrichment of the lives of the
citizens of Denmark.
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| Store Hareskov Forest Area |
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| Path Through Store Hareskov |
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| Store Hareskov: Next to a lake used for boating on the outskirts of the forest |
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