Sustainable travel has come a long way in recent years—eco-friendly hotels are popping up left and right, and many major cities are choosing to devote more resources to improving public transportation. As much as we appreciate these initiatives as travelers, it’s also important to recognize that consumer demand is what drives them in the first place. If we wish to see a more sustainable future, we need to be willing to create a more sustainable present. Read on to learn more about some simple, yet effective ways to be a more eco-conscious traveler.
Stay Somewhere Sustainable
Like we said, the more people opt for eco-friendly accommodations, the greater the demand for such places becomes. New sustainable establishments begin to open up, and existing businesses take note of this shift and may switch to more responsible practices. When planning your trip, choose accommodations that use energy-efficient technologies, manage waste responsibly, and support local conservation efforts. If it falls within your budget, consider staying in a small, locally-owned B&B, as they tend to have a lower environmental impact than large chain hotels.
Use Responsible Transportation
Transportation is one of the greatest contributors to carbon emissions within the travel industry. To minimize your impact, try to get around using public transportation, biking, or walking whenever you can. For trips that require a flight, stick with economy seating on airlines that invest in sustainable practices like incorporating more fuel-efficient planes into their fleets.
Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle
In terms of pollution, it’s been said that plastic is the new coal, and single-use plastics in particular are a major problem in many popular tourist destinations. Ditch the disposables and prioritize reusable alternatives by carrying a refillable water bottle, reusable shopping bag, and eco-friendly utensils. If you do need to use plastic, follow local recycling practices as much as possible.