Being a lover of travel is almost entirely a beautiful thing. Sure, it’s an expensive hobby, but it’s worth it. Really the only downside is the fact that travel, especially on airplanes, has a pretty heavy negative impact on the environment. So what can you do if you’re both a traveler and an environmentalist?
Well, you don’t have to swear off travel entirely. As with everything, making your best effort to minimize your negative impact is all we can really do. So here are some ways you can travel more kindly.
Leave No Trace
In the outdoors, there’s the concept of leaving no trace, or not leaving behind any trash or damaging the environment that you’re visiting. The same concept can be applied to the places you travel, but even stronger. While you’re at your destination, consider volunteering or picking up trash as a way to actually make a positive impact on the places you visit.
Celebrate Local Culture
One way you can benefit the places you visit is by supporting the local culture and economy. While you’re there, try to eat at local restaurants, buy local crafts, and participate in activities that support members of the community and not international corporations.