Around the world, as the reopening continues, the itch to see the world is stronger than ever. But every flight we take and every place we fly to is adding to our impact on the environment. Sustainable travel is not just a word but a responsible way to travel that safeguards the present and future of the environment and the local communities travel to, leaving a positive impact and reducing the negative for years to come. It’s simply being a mindful guest on our planet and making sure the places we love can continue to thrive for future generations. I often find it difficult not to feel guilty about my lack of carbon footprint reduction when I travel., and thus taking baby steps is better than not taking any steps, right?
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Choose Transportation Wisely
Your most significant carbon influence is often the travel itself. Try and take direct flights whenever possible as a lot of fuel is burned in take-off and landing. Use train travel for short distances — it’s much better for the environment than flying, and the views can be picturesque. Once you arrive, choose public transport, walking or cycling over taking cabs or ride-sharing services.
Pack Light & Smart
Lighter luggage results in less fuel consumption for planes and vehicles. When it comes to packing, the key is doing so in a versatile way. Bring refillable water bottles (and a filter if you absolutely need one) to cut down on single-use plastics. Pack reusable shopping bags for souvenirs and markets. Opt for reef-safe sunblock to preserve marine life.
Support Local & Be Respectful
You spending choices do make a difference. Support local business — eat at local restaurants, purchase from the markets, go where the local people are. “So money doesn’t leave the community.” Be aware of cultural traditions and dress respectfully, ask before taking photos and, if you can, learn a few basic words. Eschew seeing animals pay the price for our entertainment or earth destruction.
Minimize Waste
Shrink your footprint day-to-day. Say no to plastic straws and bags. If facilities are available, recycle for reuse. Think about the water and energy consumption in your accommodation – switch off the lights and air conditioning when leaving. Although there might be some fun to be had out of all manner of digital pursuits in foreign climes, for instance, testing your luck with a live casino, it’s important to guide your time there with low-impact, local endeavours in order to stay on course to meeting your sustainable traveling targets.
Wrapping Up
Traveling sustainably is a process of making accountable decisions. By considering how you get around, what you pack, what you do at your destinations and how you minimize waste, you can make a big dent in your environmental impact and make the most of your travel to boot. Every single choice you make helps to protect our stunning world and the amazing people in the destinations you travel to. Travel frequently, travel intentionally.