Eco-Friendly Travellers and How You Can Be One

There are few things as pressing as the need to be responsible when it comes to tourism. Tourism represents one of the biggest hopes and threats to some of the most stunning places around the world. The economic benefits are countered by the possible ecological and social problems that heavy traffic brings, and this is why it is so important to take travel and vacation options which are responsible and environmentally friendly. Thankfully increased awareness has led to increased demand for ecologically and socially responsible tourism options, and as a result, the availability of such services has increased, too.

Choose Eco-Friendly Destinations

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Rather than looking at green travel as a short-lived trend, an eco-friendly traveller sees it as an opportunity to live a portable lifestyle of environmental protection. Irrespective of your choice of travel plans, such as visiting a big city, taking a picture in a beach, ascending the mountains and so on, you should focus on choosing eco-friendly destinations that care for Mother Nature.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation

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Even with the awe-inspiring awareness of environmental protection, many popular hotels are yet to take the opportunity of marketing their eco-friendly efforts. Therefore, before you book for accommodation, make sure the lodge or hotels that support green initiatives. You can start by reading reviews on eco-friendly sites that share information on environmentally sustainable practices of popular hotels.

Pack Light

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If you are an eco-friendly traveller, one of the key things to consider is the weight of your luggage. Overpacking means more laundry and dirty laundry takes up much more space than neatly folded clothing. You’re likely to buy souvenirs on your way, packing light will add some extra space.

Use Public Transport

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Try and use public transport as much as possible on your trip. It reduces the number of carbon emissions released into the atmosphere, by using private transport. If you’re using an Uber, invite a friend to do so too or share the load by carpooling to your destination. Alternatively, book a vehicle with a car rental company and carpool.

Treat Your Room as Your Home

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By having your own personal space, you will be able to make some eco-friendly adjustments in your room, such as changing the blinder, turning off the lights, unplugging idle electrical appliances, taking short showers, turning off taps etc. These small environmentally conscious steps go a long way in protecting our planet.

Support Local Entrepreneurship

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A traveller who frequently buys from local businesses gives the owner an opportunity to implement environmentally friendly practices in the community, such as only buying products from eco-friendly businesses. You can be an eco-friendly traveller by seeking to purchase products and services from such local businesses.

Be alert for Animal Tourism

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Eco-friendly travellers should watch out for animal tourism during their trips. Always avoid tour destinations that promote animal captivity. Tourists should view animals exhibiting their natural behaviours in their own environments, which contribute towards their protection.

Choose your Souvenirs Wisely

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Naturally, travellers usually desire to carry a souvenir home. You can be an eco-friendly traveller by resisting the urge to grab items made from animal products, such as ivory and leather. You should only choose biodegradable products, such as environmentally friendly stationery, recycled bags, and other items made from natural materials.

Dispose of Waste Correctly

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When travelling, you may be compelled to grab some items or food. Always make sure you dump the waste and packaging in bins or recycling bins. You should take the initiative of cleaning

up your surroundings while travelling by disposing of waste correctly including paper bags, plastic bags, and cloth bags.

Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodation

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Even with the awe-inspiring awareness of environmental protection, many popular hotels are yet to take the opportunity of marketing their eco-friendly efforts. Therefore, before you book for accommodation, make sure the lodge or hotels that support green initiatives. You can start by reading reviews on eco-friendly sites that share information on environmentally sustainable practices of popular hotels.

Use Sun/Solar Heat where Necessary

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Solar energy is one of the most abundant but neglected sources of energy due to the overdependence on electricity. As an eco-friendly traveller, appreciate the sun by using it to dry your clothes, heat your water, warm your room, and even generate solar power. Such simple gestures go a long way to conserve electric energy.