Our planet has been losing its charm because of pollution, soil erosion, and whatnot. Yes, several steps are being taken to limit it and make our Earth a better place. But did you know that even traveling plays a major role in its degeneration?
Science Direct has mentioned, “Air pollution can be caused by various sources, such as vehicular exhaust emissions, pollution from industries, commercial activities, brick kiln, thermal plants, road dust, waste/ agricultural waste burning, etc. And while we may not realize it, by traveling we are contributing to it.
So what’s the solution? Just so people take better precautions, I’m here with eco-friendly traveling tips for sustainable travel.
Let’s get started!
Accommodate in Eco-Friendly Stays
While we are traveling it’s obvious that a place needs to status must. Usually, individuals go to hotels or guest houses, which is okay. But before booking, you can check whether they are using eco-friendly measures or not.
Like solar energy panels are present if they have minimized water waste tactics, energy-efficient appliances, and more. You might think, why does it matter? Thousands of hotels across the world might show that they are perfect on paper, but behind the scenes are responsible for multiple things.
They shouldn’t be promoted and by choosing sustainable stays over them, they’ll start losing money and might change the way they operate, which will be beneficial.
Limit Plastic Use/Waste
Plastic waste is majorly responsible for climate change, water, air, and soil pollution, poses danger to wildlife, spreads toxins, and whatnot. Every second item is made up of it, whether it’s water bottles, disposables spoons/cups, charging cables, or anything else.
But while traveling we often keep on purchasing water bottles, plastic bags, makeup accessories, etc. This needs to be stopped. There are great alternatives that can be used which will be discussed later, but for now, what I’m saying is minimize the plastic use at all cost.
Participate in Sustainable Activities
While traveling or on vacation, we want to do several things to make it fun and memorable. There are several activities that you can participate in which are not only enjoyable but also good for nature.
Activities like cycling, hiking, tracking, and wildlife watching are some of the best activities that you can do. If you are traveling for any work-related purpose or opening a new brand of office in any new location, ensure that your office furniture supplier is only suggesting bamboo-based products as it has the least environmental impact.
Even while traveling, some places offer bamboo rafting, which is a great experience and full of adventure. Don’t get rented vehicles, I get that you’ve got money to do so, but instead, travel via local transport it’s cheaper and better.
PRO TIPDecrease your carbon footprint by traveling from flights that offer carbon-offsetting options when booking your flight!
Opt for Renewable Products
We must pack our essentials while traveling, but never overpack or carry things that won’t be of any use or might be thrown away. Here is the list of a few items that travelers need to carry:
- Reusable Utensils: Carry reusable bottles, straws, and cups as it reduce plastic waste and saves money.
- Carry Solar Powered Accessories: We all would need chargers, and they come in solar-powered variant, which is handy. Portable solar fans will keep you cool when it gets hot, and if camping at night, keep a lantern with you. Charge in the morning with sun and use at night.
- Toiletries: Hygiene is important, and you can carry biodegradable soap bars/shampoo and keep a container that can be refiled later. Do you think it’s cheap? It’s not, and nobody should feel ashamed of it.
- Sustainable Suitcases/Bags: Wait, we can’t travel without proper luggage, right? But use those that are either made of recycled materials or can be recycled easily in the future.
These are small things that people don’t pay attention to, but it matters, it’s the same as office partition needs to be made up of renewable materials but nobody cares, even though there are rules for them.
Best Places for Healthy Travel
There are several places across the world that take every measure to ensure that the surroundings remain clean and pollution-free. Take Costa Rica for example that are known for their biodiversity and firm dedication towards preservation.
It is said to be the heaven of ecotourism. We also have Bhutan, it is the first country in the world that is completely carbon negative. They allow a limited number of tourist to maintain their status and even have strict policies related to it.
New Zealand is also a great place it is also known as the leader of ecotourism because it offers 100% eco-friendly accommodation, activities, and tours. Finally, we have Finland. Well, I wouldn’t be saying much about it as its forest and natural resources speak louder than anything else.
Some countries might not be for everyone. Because the pollution level here is quite high. Learn about them in the infographic below.
Future of Eco-Friendly Travel
Eco-friendly travel is reaching all the places as countries have started to take proper measures to ensure sustainability. In the upcoming days, there will be more places like Costa Rica or New Zealand that would be perfect as a travel destination.
But government alone can’t make it happen, people and private corporations need to take steps as well. For example, office furniture in the Philippines is usually made of recycled objects or is environmentally beneficial.
It’s not that big of a deal, but it still makes a lot of difference. These little things are shaping the future of environmentally mindful travel.
Final Words
These tips will help individuals with sustainable travel, as they’ll reduce wastage. Not only that, but it might also them save money, and who doesn’t want that? However, be mindful of what you are doing.
Don’t go around throwing garbage or burning fireworks for no reason. It’s our environment, and we should keep it clean and safe.
