5 Simple Ways to Travel More Sustainably !
If one was to take a poll asking people whether they’d be a responsible traveller or an irresponsible one, most would go with the former. But the question is, what does ‘conscious travelling’ mean? And is it possible in current times?
Conscious travel, also known as green travel, is more than just a buzzword. In simple words, it can be described as simple choices made in order to minimise one’s impact on:
- The planet
- Cultural and natural heritage
- Local communities
Conscious travelling needs to be fostered now more than ever. Keeping this in mind, we’ve put together five simple ways in which you can transform into a sustainable traveller!
“Even making the smallest sustainable travel choices can make the biggest impact on our planet, and on the local communities in each destination you visit!”
- Use Public Transport
While this one’s a no-brainer, it is something many of us overlook. Naturally, our busy schedules make us want to minimise travel time and make the most of our trips. But unfortunately, flying is one of the leading culprits when it comes to producing carbon footprint. (You may try to offset your carbon footprint by means of tree plantation and other activities too, as a complementary measure).
So, try hopping on to the ‘slow travel’ trend by swapping flights for trains and buses, whenever it’s viable. Additionally, walking and/or biking are great ways to explore destinations. Not only will it reduce your carbon footprint, but you will also be able to soak in the place much better!
2. Pack Reusable Items
Our oceans today are swamped with swirling masses of plastic and other waste. This is harming marine ecosystems and the serenity of beautiful destinations like never before. Moreover, the stench and harmful gases released by this waste are highly toxic.
Part of the solution is to take reusable items everywhere you go. It doesn’t take much to pack reusables such as a metal water bottle, a food container, a bamboo straw, and so on. In addition, keeping a cloth bag on you at all times can reduce the use of plastic greatly. Find some great products here for travel at the Ceiba Store.
3. Support the Local Economy
Even though tourism is a major contributor to the global economy, a huge chunk of the money spent leaks out to big corporations. In the process, local communities (and the planet) take a huge hit.
Buying local can provide the locals with jobs, and feed them with a steady source of income. Besides, most local communities are highly conscious of the local biodiversity. They know exactly what is good (and bad) for their immediate environment.
“By consuming local, you can minimise the negative impacts that stem from transporting materials from thousands of miles away.”
4. Pack Smartly
If you’re guilty of overpacking every time you set out on a trip, you’re not the only one. However, packing while keeping your real needs in mind is crucial for embracing green travel in its true spirit. If you pack too much, you will be faced by a number of restrictions that could harm the planet negatively. For instance, it is hard to opt for public transport when you’ve got a heavy bag that’s weighing you down.
Similarly, if you forget to pack any essential item(s), you will have no option but to purchase them while on-the-go (read: overconsumption and environmental degradation).
5. Leave No Trace
Whether you’re trekking in the mountains or swimming at the beach, be sure to leave the destination better than you found it. It’s a shame to see plastic wrappers and other debris plague beautiful destinations. So, be sure to dispose of any waste in designated dustbins. If you don’t see one around, keep the waste in your backpacks until you see one.
And if you’re willing to go the extra mile for the sake of our planet, pick up any waste that you see on the way and trash it where it belongs.
Key Takeaway: We’re incredibly lucky to be living in times when travelling is as simple as it is! It truly is one of the most precious experiences one could have. However, as we trot around the world, let’s remember to prioritize the well-being of our planet and local communities. It is only if we manage to do so, will we be able to preserve all this beauty for generations to come.
