How to Be Eco-Friendly on Your Travels
We're all trying to save the planet. But a lot of the things we do are harmful to mother earth -- including travel. There are ways, however, to be mindful when you're traveling to have the least amount of stress on the world and the smallest carbon footprint possible.
When abroad, for example, you should act as if you are at home, and treat the destination you are in with respect. Even if it does not have strict regulations about ecology, you must be aware that it is on the same planet as your home, and whatever happens there will, eventually, affect your home and our next generation.
By minimizing the harmful influence on the air and the surrounding, you can also save some money, so you will have nothing to lose and much to gain. Use these tips on how to go green on your next adventure:
Pack Responsibly.
Did you know that the more weight cars, buses, trains and planes are carrying, the more fuel they use and the more harmful gasses are emitted to the atmosphere? That is why you should pack light. It is actually rare that you use and wear all the things you have brought, so be wise.
Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag with you. Also, consider the way you will get there. The most eco friendly option is to travel by train. If, however, you will travel by plane, opt for airlines with higher occupancy rates or the ones that are somewhat responsible, like Swiss Air.
Choose an Eco-Friendly Hotel.
Not all hotels have the same ways of using energy. When choosing an accommodation for your green voyage, search for ones with an effective waste treatment system, that uses eco-friendly energy sources (hydroelectric power or solar energy), that are recycling, and that are, overall, energy efficient. In general, green hotels have green stickers in the lobby window.
Also, try to pick a hotel that is locally owned with local employees.
Be a Green Guest.
It is not all about how the hotel is using the energy, but about your behavior while staying in it. Some simple practices will help you minimize the energy consumption. By keeping TV, lights and air-conditioning off whenever you are not in a room, you will save a significant amount of energy.
Also, keep your showers short and shut off the water when brushing your teeth. Reduce the number of paper napkins and bags.
Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation.
Do not rent a car. If you are going to some distant location, choose a bus or some other means of public transport. If the distance is not as great, it would be preferable to go on foot. Not only you will save money and energy, but you will have the chance to get acquainted with the destination better. In many countries you can even rent cycling gear and get around the city with a bicycle.
Eat Green.
If you are purchasing street food, make sure you do not use too many napkins or disposable cups, and if you are, dispose of them properly. Choose local food vendors and diners instead of international food chains. And ask around where you can get a fully organic meal made of certified organic products.
More Ideas.
There are some other small things you can do in order to be responsible and earth-friendly on your vacation. Do some nature-friendly activities like surfing or power walking, go for forest walks but make sure you don’t litter along the way. If you opt for surfing, I recommend consulting Natural Necessity professionals to choose an eco-friendly board.
Also, shop for products from local vendors and use the reusable shopping bag we mentioned above. Instead of staying in a hotel, you can stay at your friend’s house or at some family house locals are renting. Respect the environment and stay on trails and public footpaths.
As you see, keeping the environment on mind while traveling is not as hard as it may seem, but it is very useful. By following green practices, you are respecting the destination of your choice.
Roxana is a Sydney based travel enthusiast with a passion for writing. She loves fashion and has an eye for anything visually appealing and aesthetically beautiful. She is all about the healthy lifestyle, loves to run with her husband and dogs and has fun cooking exotic meals for her family. You can find her articles on HighStyleLife, StyleByAsia and, of course UWM.