Many argue that the only way to travel sustainably is to not travel at all. However, I don't see this as the case. Why should you avoid travelling if you can make a positive impact on the place you're visiting?
Here are some steps I think we should try to follow in order to be more sustainable.
1. Stay Close to Home
Ultimately, the less distance travelled the better. Therefore the CO2 emissions are much lower than a long haul flight. Consider locations closer to your home whether that's a staycation or somewhere only an hour or two away. For instance, I should consider more locations in Europe when planning my trips!
However, it's impossible to deny the appeal of tropical locations further away. Asia has my heart, so I'm always looking for flights anywhere there. The average flight to Asia is about 8/9 hours, something not entirely sustainable. Therefore, when I can, I always fly direct or have as little layovers as possible. This is due to the fact that taking off and landing create considerably more emissions than just flying.
Sites such as SkyScanner have started to highlight the most eco-friendly flight the offer for each route...
2. Make Greener Transportation Choices
Once you're in whichever country you decide to visit, think about your method of transportation. Whilst a taxi can sound appealing and more convenient, use a considerably greener transportation method - public transport. Using the subway, public bus, or tuk-tuk (etc). makes such a big difference in emissions. Not only this, but you become fully immersed in the culture of the country this way, as well as saving a lot of money!!
3. Avoid Overvisited Destinations
Mass tourism is difficult to avoid, however it puts a major strain on the local economy. Not only this, but your personal experience will be hindered; the crowds will be huge and the prices will be much higher. However, there often is a reason for this high level of tourism. Cities such as Amsterdam, and Venice are beautiful and have such interesting culture/history, however, they're suffering massively from over-tourism. Therefore, if you do end up visiting a destination with a lot of tourists, try and use local facilities as much as possible. This includes;
eating local; who wants to eat from a non-authentic chain restaurant anyway?
staying in a hostel run by locals; an eco-hostel would be even better!
using local tour operators
An important note, if you do choose to stay in a hotel use methods such as hanging your towels up to signal you don't want them to be washed, or keep the do not disturb sign on so the linens aren't washed a couple of times a week to reduce unnecessary energy usage.
4. Avoid Animal Attractions.
Unless you're seeing an animal in its natural habitat or in a genuine conservative reserve don't bother visiting. Not only will you be funding the unethical treatment of animals, but you will also encourage others to do the same! Many of the animals you'll be seeing will be in small cages, abused, and even drugged; simply don't fund the organisation! Be sure to do your research on where you're visiting, particularly if it is advertised as conservation. For example, although many Elephant Sanctuaries in Thailand describe their practice as a "sanctuary", it's the treatment of animals suggests differently.
Whale watching in Boston was one of my favourite excursions I have done with animals. We went out on a boat and watched the whales from distance in their natural habitats; something truly breathtaking.
Ultimately the best way to sustainably travel is to leave the place in a better state than you left it, think about the consequences of your actions. Of course, you should continue to follow your everyday sustainable habits when travelling; reusable water bottles, reusable bags etc.
Remember you can never be perfect, simply do your best!
Pin this for later...
-Alicia
About The Author
Founder of Alicia's Travel Guide
@alicia.chapple
Alicia's Travel Guide on Socials
Comments