To travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and it’s one of the best ways to get to know our world. Tourism is also an excellent way to support economies both near and far, and gain an appreciation of different landscapes and cultures.
However, there’s no doubt that travelling can take a toll on the planet and local communities. The aviation industry, gentrification, and commodification of travel can unfortunately cause issues with pollution, resource depletion, and social disruption.
So, then, how do you travel responsibly to make sure you’re making a positive impact? The good news is that there are a few simple principles to keep in mind that ensure that you’re a respectful tourist. From visiting a local eco-lodge, to travelling far to find south sea pearls, prioritising sustainable tourism is an admirable choice for both people and the planet. Read on to learn more about sustainable travel ideas!
Rethink Your Transport
It’s no secret that the aviation industry has an effect on our planet, with emissions from planes being a significant contributor to climate change. While planes are sometimes unavoidable — if you’re travelling across the world, for example — there are many more sustainable options to get you where you need to go.
If you’re in a region with a developed railway network, like Europe or Japan, trains are an excellent way to cut down on your carbon footprint. And if not, no problem! There are other options like electric coach services that can take you to new and exciting places, without all the fossil fuels.
Learn Something
Travel gives us the opportunity to open our minds and learn about the world around us. As well as seeing the sights of a new location, consider prioritising tourism that can teach you more about how to live sustainably.
If you’re open to travelling far away, consider gorilla trekking in Uganda, or visiting sustainable south sea pearl farming in the Philippines. Or, for a more local trip, consider a Buckingham Palace Tour!
Consider Volunteering
While there’s no doubt that you’ll gain a lot from travel, volunteering is an excellent way to give back. Spending some of your time away giving back to communities or the planet can help you offset your trip, and you will return home feeling rewarded.
Whether it’s a language exchange, helping out with local tech needs, or helping with beach cleanups in Thailand, volunteering on holiday is a habit we can get behind!
Stay Local
The world is large and exciting, but it’s worth remembering how much there is to discover close to home. Travelling only a few hours away is a simple way to cut down on your carbon footprint, and can even help you gain a new perspective on the local area.
If you’re in the UK, why not take advantage of the stunning scenery with a walking trip. You’ll get to see some of the most gorgeous views — all without jet lag!
Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation
As the world’s population grows, the number of people travelling each year is only increasing. Because of these, the tourism industry is responding with eco-travel options that help to offset the impact of travelling.
From Cape May to Costa Rica, eco-friendly hotels and lodges work to support local communities and reduce the impact on the surrounding environment. This may look like reducing water usage, minimising waste, or putting funding back into local conservation efforts.
Sustainable Tourism is the Future
Our world is a fantastic place, so it’s our responsibility to protect it for future generations. By choosing to prioritise eco-travel, you are doing your part to protect communities and the environment, wherever in the world you may be. Sustainable tourism is better for you and our planet — it’s an easy choice!
