7 Easy Ways to be an Eco-Friendly Traveller
‘Take only photos, leave only footprints’ is the catch cry of those advocating for eco-friendly tourism. We know it’s important – but what does it mean? And how do you do it?
What is Eco-Friendly Travel?
It’s about looking after both the planet and the people of your holiday destination.
Eco-friendly travel is made up of two concepts - ecotourism and sustainable travel. Both approaches aim to conserve the environment by preserving natural ecosystems, while honouring the culture and enhancing the economy for the local people. Education is often an important aspect too.
Tourism can be a double-edged sword to some regions – tourists bring in money but resources and infrastructure cannot always cope with the extra demands on the environment, water and electricity, and waste-management.
Fortunately, with a little knowledge and preparation, it is quite easy to make ethical choices about travel that look after the people, flora and fauna that make your chosen destination so special.
Here are 7 Ways to Reduce Your Travel Footprint –
Choose ethical operators
Whether it be your accommodation, a day trip or a week-long adventure, choose businesses that have a good track record for doing the right thing. Check that they have a commitment to sustainability by having sound animal-welfare policies eg they support an elephant refuge rather than offer elephant rides, they employ local people and treat them well. Check reviews on apps such as TripAdvisor.
2. Pack light
Travel with only hand luggage if possible. Pack quick-dry, washable items that you can wash and wear again. The lighter your luggage, the less greenhouse gas generated by your flight. Pack a reusable water bottle (with filter), a shopping bag and sarong that doubles as skirt, beach towel, tablecloth and carry-sling.
3. Get off the beaten track
Escape the overcrowded cities and venture to smaller towns or lesser-known national parks. You will have a more authentic experience and support the local economy.
4. Take it slow
Stay a little longer in one place to get to know it better and use less travel resources. Try a homestay, find out where the locals eat and try public transport.
5. Travel green
If you must fly, considering paying the carbon offset. Once on land, get around via bicycle, walking or public transport when possible.
6. Think about what you eat
While it’s fun to try new foods, be sure you know what you are eating and that it’s an ethical choice. Avoid rare species like sea turtle, pangolin, puffin and ‘bushmeat’ and environmental disasters like shark fin.
7. Shop wisely
Support local enterprises such as social enterprise cafes or genuine handcraft artisans. It feels good to give back in a meaningful way.
Be kind and show respect to the planet, the people and the wildlife – and have a truly memorable and guilt-free holiday.