Ways to be an eco-friendly traveler
Tourism drives a strong economy, from employment opportunities to successful businesses. But it’s also good to note that traveling is a burden on the global fight against climate change.
There are millions of international travelers, and the number it’s expected to rise in the coming years. While tourism brings a lot of money and activates specific economies, it means also big volumes of water usage. It increase energy consumption, create waste, and worsen greenhouse gas emissions.
As a traveler, you need to take responsibility for advocating sustainable tourism. However, it’s not going to happen in a snap. There’s no a magical solution to put an end to the problem. Fortunately, there are many ways to be an eco-friendly traveler.
Read on for further details!
Transport
- Try the most sustainable form of transportation. Depending on your destination, you have the option to drive or take the train. When traveling with a bunch of friends, share your car. For solo travelers, it’s greener to take the plane. The Guardian has listed some of the most conscious traveling company and tour operators, allowing you to travel with the less impact possible
- Consider direct flights. Look for the shortest route when you’re planning your trip. Landings and take off usually cause a high percentage of carbon emissions. It is indeed best to try a direct flight. Plus, don’t forget to avoid stop-overs and other changes as much as possible is part of the ways to be an eco-friendly traveler.
Accommodation
- Look for green certifications at hotels. Many businesses in the hotel industry have incorporated comfy trips and sustainability into their services. However, there’s a variety of accommodations to choose from. Don’t worry! Check whether a hotel employs local staff or uses eco-friendly materials. Website like green traveler guides has listed for you all the main certifications available and discover new ways to be an eco-friendly traveler.
- Remove large resorts from your list. Large resorts have big environmental impacts due to energy and water consumption. Why don’t you explore a small location? Regardless of the size, nothing can beat a friendly and committed team.
Sustainable Tours and Activities
- Participate in eco-friendly wildlife tourism. Wildlife tours that promise up-close encounters with animals have been creating noise among travelers. Despite the affordable rates, avoid such services. Instead, look for options that won’t disturb wildlife. Be sure to use special and high-end technology to maximize your experience. If you’re thinking about a Safari but you don’t want to leave the continent, European safari company it covered you, organizing this experience in the Italian Apennine.
- Scuba dive and snorkel with care. You’re probably fond of scuba diving or snorkeling. Then, be cautious not to tread on the corals. Studies show that approximately 25% of coral reefs are now damaged. That’s why we need to do such activities with attention. Also, wear the right sunscreen.
- Try Surfboarding or Kitesurfing. If you’ve planned your next holiday in a location close to the ocean, than kite or surf are the best sport to try. Able to give you the same emotions of a water-scooter, are at the same time really eco-friendly, producing 0 emissions. My favorite area in Europe for Surf is Lisbon, with a cool city and surf spots for every taste and experience.
- Participate in community tourism projects. Have you ever heard of community tourism organizations? Or have you encountered NGOs that deal with the preservation of natural resources? Whatever the case may be, grab such volunteering opportunities.
So, what’s your thought? Trips and sustainability have been one of the most useful solutions to alleviate global warming. But it’s a long process. If we act today, there will be a better and more sustainable tomorrow. Now that we know that your holiday will be great, consider also to your shopping choices, take a look to our post that suggest you how to become a more ethical consumer.
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