Oct 27, 2025
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau visits Orø-Margrete forest in Denmark
Nikolaj Coster-Waldau visits EcoTree’s Orø forest to plant trees and explore sustainable forestry.
We often have clients, customers, and partners visit our forests. But this occasion was a little different. Actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, best known for his role in Game of Thrones, is also a passionate climate advocate. This spring, he took a step beyond the screen to engage in environmental action on the island of Orø, where he has a summer house. While visiting our Orø-Margrete forest, he planted trees and learned about our sustainable forestry practices. His visit coincided with filming for his documentary series, An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet, in which he explores climate innovations worldwide.
Actor turned climate advocate
As a well-known actor, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau’s influence extends far beyond his Hollywood fame. Over the years, he has become a vocal advocate for climate action, using his platform to highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Through his work, Nikolaj aims to showcase global initiatives that are making a difference in the fight against climate change.
In his series, An Optimist’s Guide to the Planet, he travels the world seeking out those who are turning challenges into opportunities, with a focus on positive change.
His visit to Orø was an opportunity to learn more about our sustainable forestry practices and how they help restore biodiversity and fight climate change locally.
A personal connection to the Island of Orø
Orø holds a special place in Nikolaj's heart. He owns a summer house on the island, and his connection to its landscape is deeply personal. The island was once covered in forests, but over time, much of the land was cleared for farming. Its history has shaped the land into what it is today: largely farmland with little forest cover. Now, through our Orø-Margrete forest project, we are making a small yet active effort to increase the island’s forest cover and gradually grow the project over the next many years.
Revitalising the island’s ecosystem
Together with EcoTree forester Arnaud de Grave, Nikolaj and his wife, Nukâka Coster-Waldau, learned how to plant trees, including their own four Sessile Oak trees. This planting method, inspired by Canadian techniques, ensures the long-term success of the young trees.
By supporting the Orø-Margrete project, you can become the owner of a tree in the forest and thus contribute to the island’s transformation. The restoration effort currently spans just under 10 hectares, but with your help, we hope to expand this area in the coming years.
Discover the first steps on turning ten hectares of depleted farmland into the Orø-Margrete forest.
A message from Nikolaj
As part of his commitment to raising awareness of climate solutions, Nikolaj recorded a special message after he visited the forest. You can watch the full video on our YouTube channel, where he shares his thoughts on the importance of creating more forests and how everyone can make a difference.
