Sustainable Travel: Making a Difference One Adventure at a Time

Summer holidays are on the horizon, beckoning us to embark on new adventures and explore the wonders of our world. But as we plan our travels, it's essential to pause and consider the impact our journeys have on the planet. Picture yourself strolling through lush rain forests, diving into crystal-clear waterfalls, or wandering ancient cities steeped in history. These experiences are the essence of travel, offering us the chance to connect with distant places and cultures. However, traditional tourism often comes at a cost – one that our planet and local communities pay dearly for.

The rise of social media, particularly Instagram, has fueled the growth of certain tourism destinations, leading to over-tourism and its detrimental effects on the environment and local communities – looking at you Marrakesh! While the influx of visitors can boost the local economy, it can also strain infrastructure and damage fragile ecosystems. Sustainable travel aims to minimize these negative impacts while maximizing the benefits for both the environment and the people who call these destinations home.

So, what exactly is sustainable travel? It's more than just reusing hotel towels or eating at locally-owned restaurants (though those are great places to start). At its core, sustainable travel is about making conscious choices that reduce our carbon footprint and support local economies and cultures. It's about treading lightly on the earth, leaving behind nothing but footprints and taking away memories that enrich our lives.

Environmental conservation is a key pillar of sustainable travel. From minimizing plastic waste and opting for eco-friendly accommodations to choosing transportation with lower emissions, every decision we make as travelers can either contribute to the problem or be part of the solution.

Many hotels, resorts, and tour operators are making sustainability commitments that include recycling, reducing water and energy consumption.  Many in the sector are committed to a holistic approach to sustainability, which includes the development of LEED-certified facilities, offering eco-friendly and organic food and wine options, and rewarding guests who make "green choices."

To help consumers make easier choices, there are a number of certifications, such as The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), a worldwide initiative dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices and Earthcheck.org, that provide all types of businesses a rigorous path to sustainability certification leading to a chance to publicly demonstrate your business’s commitment to environmental and sustainable practices.   As a sustainable traveler, look for businesses with these certifications and make sure they are through legitimate companies as sadly, some businesses are making up certifications since they know these are important to many travelers.

Unfortunately, some of the most beautiful destinations have fallen victim to over-tourism or over-development. Venice, Machu Picchu, and Boracay Island, Philippines are just a few examples where overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure have led to environmental degradation. However, these destinations are implementing mitigation measures to preserve their natural beauty and cultural heritage. From tourist taxes and visitor caps to conservation initiatives, these efforts are vital for protecting our planet's most iconic sites.

But sustainable travel isn't just about the environment – it's also about supporting local communities in a way that empowers them rather than exploits them. Choosing locally-owned accommodations, dining at family-run restaurants, and purchasing souvenirs from local artisans (not cheap key chains and magnets that you can find anywhere) are all ways to invest in the prosperity of these communities. Moreover, sustainable travel allows us to forge meaningful connections with the people we meet along the way, enriching our travel experiences and reminding us of our common humanity.

So, how can you make your next travel experience a sustainable one? Start by tackling transportation, which is often responsible for a significant portion of carbon emissions. Consider reducing the distance traveled or opting for transportation with lower emissions, such as trains or buses. If flying is necessary, choose flights with lower emissions.  You can find these online. However, the reality is that many of us love exploring destinations halfway around the world and a plane is the only (realistic and timely) way to travel.  However, once we arrive on a different continent, try to take trains, buses, or boats to visit different locations across the region as opposed to a short flight.  The emissions from just one long-haul flight can be more than driving a standard gas vehicle for a whole year. In Europe, where many trains are electric, the emissions from rail travel can be as much as 10 times less than flying.

Staying in eco-friendly accommodations reduces the impact of tourism on the environment and staying at a locally owned accommodation keeps the money local.

Every country/region has foods they are known for.  Try these local specialties.  Don’t go looking for pizza and burgers in Vietnam.  The local delicacies have been tested for centuries!  It’s also much better for the environment, decreasing carbon emissions that arise from transporting food great distances.

Additionally, reduce, reuse, and recycle items to minimize waste, Say NO to single-use plastics and carrying reusable water bottles and bags. 8 million tons of plastic end up in oceans every year putting marine life at risk.

Respect the local culture cultural and artistic heritage. Interaction with locals is one of the most rewarding aspects of sustainable travel and preserves traditions passed down from generation to generation. It is essential to respect local traditions as they form the identity of the local community and create a sense of unity among people.  There is nothing more disrespectful than see loud, boisterous Western visitors, dressed inappropriately, at holy or religious sites or vandalizing ancient structures for a photo opp.

In essence, sustainable travel is about being purposeful in your journey – paying attention to who you're giving your money to and the impact it has on the planet and local communities. Every journey we embark on has the power to shape the world for better or for worse, and by choosing sustainable travel, we can leave a positive impact wherever we go. So, as you plan your summer holidays, remember to travel responsibly, and leave behind a legacy of sustainability for future generations to enjoy.