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Travel has the power to transform your personal experiences, as well as the destinations you visit, along with their communities. While the pandemic has taught us the importance of sustainable living, we must adopt those learnings in our travels as well to reduce the negative impact on the planet. So, make sustainable choices, search for meaningful experiences, and cut your travel footprint to become a sustainable and eco-friendly traveller.
Here are six simple ideas to help you in your transformative journey as a traveller.
Say 'NO' to plastic: Plastic has become an epidemic these days and is harming the environment. So, be it a beach trip or a mountain vacation, it's important for you to reduce the use of plastic. Simple measures like packing reusable cags, carrying a glass water bottle, using a water filter, using natural products like bamboo toothbrushes, and carrying reusable containers and cutlery, can help you become a sustainable traveller.
Leave no trace: Would you like to visit a beach which is littered or a monument with names of visitors written all over the walls? Obviously, No! Thus, it's essential that you don't leave any footprint in the tourist places you visit. Always carry a packet to throw your waste in and dispose of it properly. Travellers also should not deface public property or feed animals while on a wildlife safari. While trekking, always stay on the well-trodden path to avoid damaging any of the flora around you.
Reduce carbon footprint: It can be tough to travel responsibly if you must fly to your destination. However, taking a direct flight and going for longer vacations can help reduce carbon emissions. Travelling with just carry-on luggage can make the plane lighter, thereby reducing fuel usage. After arriving at their destinations, travellers should use public transport instead of a taxi. However, walking or cycling is the best! At your hotels, use less water by taking shorter showers and hanging up your towels so that you can reuse them. Leave the 'do not disturb' sign on the hotel door to reduce unnecessary washing of linen and always turn off all lights, heat/AC, and television when you leave your hotel room.
Go local: A significant part of travelling sustainably is supporting the local community and helping it grow and flourish. By making small choices like choosing to buy locally, you can make a big impact on the destination's economy, especially after the pandemic. Be it shopping, taking a tour of a historical place, or eating at a restaurant, buying local can give you more authentic experiences. Also, buying local can help you understand more about the culture and give you a better vibe of the area.
Give back: Giving back to the destinations that have given us so much is an integral part of being a sustainable traveller. Other than buying local produce, you can offer your services or your time by volunteering at local schools. Be it teaching swimming, sailing, surfing, or a new language. Any help will go a long way in giving back to the local community. However, make sure that you are not taking away jobs from locals! You can also donate money to reputable causes. But first, check if that money is being utilised responsibly. Another way to give back to the local community is to take up a project to clean a beach or a historical monument by picking up trash and recycling it.
Respect local culture: Traveling offers an amazing opportunity to know and celebrate other cultures. However, as a traveller, it's important that you work towards preserving that culture by respecting and following local customs and traditions. Be mindful of the dress code, language and food etiquette of a destination. Other than doing your research, talking to locals before visiting religious or cultural sites can help. Always ask for permission before taking a photo of someone.
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