With travel restrictions just about wholly lifted, aren't you itching for an adventure? We bet you are.
But, before you head to a new city, country, or just your nearby campsite, it's important that you plan a trip that's both fun and sustainable.
While most people support sustainable travel as a concept, engaging in responsible tourism reportedly becomes a hassle, especially when it gets inconvenient. So, we're here to help. Remember that nothing good comes easy, and we all must play an active role in bringing about a more sustainable tomorrow.
With that cleared, let's get into the tips on how you can plan a sustainable vacation.
1. Choose Sustainable Destinations
Prioritize visiting and supporting economies that engage in vital conservation work and set precedence for sustainability by maintaining good public transportation, disposing of waste properly, and sourcing renewable energy. Recognized sustainable locations include Vancouver, Canada; Copenhagen, Denmark; Freiburg, Germany; Bengaluru, India; Portland, Oregon; Ljubljana, Slovenia, and Singapore.
2. Travel by Bus, Train, or Public Transportation
The US Environmental Protection Agency states that 29% of greenhouses gases in the US come from transportation, including flights taken to and from a vacation destination. The best way to cut down on energy-intensive travel is by staying close to home.
Choose a destination you can get to easily by means of a train, bus, or public transportation. You might think that traveling by boat is a good option but, as it turns out, they their per passenger carbon dioxide emission is 3-4 times more than a commercial flight.
3. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
You can try to mediate the impact of your trip by buying carbon offsets. Basically, what these do is counterbalance the emissions you produce. You can contribute to projects that remove carbon from the atmosphere. Examples include tree plantation initiatives, energy-efficient infrastructure, and renewable energy projects.
4. Pack Responsibly
Many people feel an urge to get an all-new wardrobe just for vacation. Instead, consider borrowing stuff from close friends or family. Or at least, opt for thrift stores instead of buying new items. It's also easy to forego our responsibilities towards the planet while on vacation, but you must try to remember. So be sure to pack reusable straws, to-go coffee mugs, napkins, water bottles, silverware, etc.
5. Choose Responsible Activities
Lastly, be mindful of the fact that sustainable travel isn't only about reducing emissions and conservation. Be sure to show your respect to the community you're visiting. Try to take your business to green initiatives whenever possible. Also, try to support small local startups rather than multinationals.
Wrapping It Up
Who said you can't have fun while also being mindful about the environment? Be sure to remember these tips when planning your next vacation! The planet will thank you for your good deeds.