Journey into an Eco-friendly World
Are you itching to get away, but don’t want to leave a negative footprint in this world? The travel industry has been constantly growing, and so too has the environmental damage it causes. But worry no more - eco-friendly travel is here to save the day! The principles of sustainability are now more accessible and applicable than ever before. With green travel, you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest, all the while minimizing damage to the environment.
Sustainability on the go is the way to go in 2020. Need some tips to make your next expedition a little more environmentally-friendly? You’ve come to the right place. Read on for a guide to eco-friendly travel.
What is Eco-Friendly Travel?
In its simplest form, eco-friendly travel is promoting sustainability in the tourism industry. Sustainable tourism is defined as “tourism that respects both local people and the traveller, cultural heritage and the environment”. It seeks to benefit the natural environment, local population, and the traveller.
This can take the shape of reducing one’s carbon footprint, supporting local businesses, and generally conducting oneself in a manner that preserves the destination. By embracing eco-friendly travel principles, travellers can do their part to protect this earth from the negative effects of tourism.
Why Should I Go Green?
The environmental benefits of eco-friendly travel should be obvious - it keeps our natural environment safe and sound for future generations. The scale of tourism-induced environmental damage is huge and includes issues such as habitat destruction, emissions from air travel, air pollution, and water contamination.
But environmental benefits are not the only upside to eco-friendly travel. Travelling consciously also allows for a unique, enhanced experience for the traveller. You will get to explore a destination more thoroughly and connect more deeply with local communities and cultures.
Top Picks for Eco-Friendly Travel
When it comes to green travel, there are plenty of sustainable destinations to choose from. Here are five of our favourite picks -
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is the ultimate eco-friendly travel destination. This beautiful, green country is a pioneer in the tourism industry. It became one of the first countries to introduce sustainable tourism in the 1990s, and it continues to be a leader in eco-friendly travel initiatives. From geothermal hot springs to lush jungles, Costa Rica is all about embracing the environment.
Scotland
If you want to get away from tropical climates, Scotland is the perfect eco-friendly destination. From the highlands to the islands, this bluest of countries is full of renewable energy resources, walking trails and other outdoor activities like kayaking and biking. Scotland also takes its zero-waste program extremely seriously, so you can be sure all of your waste is disposed of properly.
Norway
To experience all the natural beauty Norway has to offer, there is no better way than through eco-friendly travel. Voyage through Norway's incredible landscape, take part in sustainability-driven projects, and enjoy a unique cultural experience.
Hawaii
Hawaii has long been a hot spot for eco-friendly travel. Its diverse ecosystem, from coral reefs to rainforests, provides the perfect environment for green travel. Its locals are devoted to preserving the beauty of their homeland and a number of sustainable initiatives are in place to ensure the islands' protection.
India
India’s vast diversity makes it a unique eco-friendly destination. From the snow-dusted Himalayas to the lush jungles in the east, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country. Eco-tourism is actively encouraged here, and with more than five thousand wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, and biospheres, India provides plenty of opportunities to explore nature and protect it all at once.
Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel
Following are some pointers to consider when travelling in an eco-friendly manner -
- Plan ahead – Do your research before you go. Check out the activities you'd like to do and find out what methods they use that promote sustainability.
- Pack light – Bringing fewer items will make your journey easier and help save fuel consumption from air travel or car rides.
- Transportation – The mode of transport you choose makes a difference. Where possible, try public transport or opt for a rental vehicle with low emissions.
- Accommodation – Choose a local, eco-friendly hotel or hostel that minimizes energy & water consumption and waste.
- Souvenirs & gifts – Shopping for souvenirs can often be wasteful due to plastic and other materials used in packaging. Instead, look for souvenirs made from local, sustainable materials.
Conclusion
Eco-friendly travel is a great way to enjoy a vacation without taking too much away from the environment. Through sustainable tourism, we can not only protect the environment, but also experience a new culture and support local economies. Remember to use this guide to get yourself started on your journey into the world of eco-friendly travel. Bon voyage!