Travel Green: Tips and Advice for Sustainable Travel
We all know we must protect coral and stop using single-use plastic. But sustainability is more than just being eco-friendly. It’s also about traveling consciously, responsibly, and positively, prioritizing people and profits alongside the planet. Now, it’s also about regeneration. Climate change is causing tremendous damage to some parts of the world, including the global south. Yet, they are the ones who have caused the least harm. Here are 12 tips for planning your holiday sustainably and effectively.
Find out how to identify ‘greenwashing
In a 1986 article, environmentalist Jay Westerveld coined “greenwashing,” claiming that the hotel industry promoted towel reuse to reduce their laundry costs rather than save the environment. This same concept is still applicable today, for example, with biodegradable plastic straws – many countries now ban single-use plastics, so finding a way around it by hotels does not constitute progress – and other marketing tactics. Research the owner of the company and its values before you book. Are they responsible or ethical? Do they care about renewable energy, human rights, biodiversity, or the local economy? The owner’s investment in regenerative projects should be reflected in the small details of the resort.
Slow down
Many people are choosing to fly less or reduce their aero footprint. This is better for the planet and allows us to take our time and appreciate the scenery, stories, and nuances we would otherwise miss. Specialist tour companies like Up Norway and Byway promote domestic Travel by land whenever possible. This could be by electric car or bike; kayaking is also an option. There are many European destinations now reachable by rail. Visit ecopassenger.org and feel good about yourself. It will show you the amount of emissions you are saving.
Check out the policies on employment, inclusion, and human rights
Knowing who is most affected by urgent threats to the planet is essential. For example, “red-lining,” a system of racial discrimination denying mortgages and bank loans, means that Black communities in the USA or UK are likelier than others to live near toxic waste sites. Travel companies committed to sustainability care as much about the local community as the bird sanctuary. They will have a diverse workforce, including people who are disabled and non-homogenized images and marketing.
Reduce waste
Throwaway culture may be a big issue behind closed doors, even though single-use plastic is now taboo. Greenpeace says the UK produces more plastic waste per capita than any other country. However, our carefully sorted “recycling” is either sent to incinerators, where the dangerous emissions are felt mainly by low-income, primarily black, communities in neighboring countries or dumped in other countries. Even “biodegradables” and “compostables” must be largely broken down in a controlled environment. You can reduce and reuse waste on vacation, just like at home.
Check for accreditation
Look for proof of a company’s responsibility; they should be kind to the environment and the people around them. The B Corporation directory lists tour operators like Sawday’s or Joro Experiences with a “B Corp” certificate. This means the company is legally and publicly liable to maintain the highest environmental and social values in all aspects of the business. Eco-hotels are distinguished by certifications such as EarthCheck, The Long Run (Building Research Establishment Assessment Method), Breeam (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and Breeam. It’s also possible to identify companies that are community-oriented. Most will have long-term, meaningful partnerships with local grassroots organizations or NGOs.
Be aware of your “foodprint.”
Eating locally and organically is not just trendy, but it also positively impacts the environment and social issues. Avoid imported foods and drinks. If you must consume meat, choose a restaurant that uses locally-sourced ingredients or, better yet, grows its own. It is not only beneficial to biodynamic and small-scale producers but also reduces the “foodprint.” If you are eating out, you can do the same thing. Avoid buffets as they have too much food.
Conserve energy and water
Eco-friendly hotels are those that conserve water by using low-flow showers and toilets, as well as recycling greywater to maintain the property. Look for hotels that use low-flow toilets and showers to conserve water and those that recycle greywater. They’ll also be keener on preserving natural resources and likely have strict renewable energy measures (solar and wind, etc.) for electricity, heating, and air conditioning. How often do they replace linen? Do they leave you with many extras and gifts you can only use once?
Pack light
The planet and your wallet will thank you for lighter luggage. Each extra kilogram of weight means more fuel is needed for takeoff. This amount is increasing every year. Planes need to fly faster in warmer temperatures. Pack smartly and only take a carry-on case. We should all purchase fewer or pre-loved clothing and save money on new holiday items. To quickly lose weight, replace liquid shampoo and soap bottles with solid bars.
Limit your carbon footprint
Carbon offsetting is a last-resort solution to reduce your carbon footprint. The damage has been done. Responsible Travel was the first to offer this practice in 2002, but seven years later, after consulting with eco groups decided to withdraw it until an alternative could be found. If you choose to fly, offset each flight with a company like Tree Sisters that pays women in need a living wage for planting trees in deforested regions.
Decolonize your travels
It’s OK to want to help others or support those in need, but first, we should consider the best way. Volunteering tourism and “voluntourism,” a form of volunteering, are based on the power imbalance between the white countries in the West and the colonized nations. You can determine if your contribution is both needed and constructive by identifying your skill set (you could be an expert in marketing) and contacting grassroots companies or NGOs. Take the same approach when taking pictures of children on vacation as you would at your local primary schools.