Are you an eco-friendly traveler?
Climate change is affecting our atmosphere, our earth, and our oceans. There is more trash in the oceans than ever. Our polar ice caps are melting. Sea levels are rising.
This world is a beautiful place, and exploring how other people live and learning about new cultures is important. Unfortunately, from C02 emissions to tourism’s effects on local ecosystems, travel can contribute to this problem.
Here are some of the quick and easy ways that you can be an eco-friendly traveler on your next trip:
Offset Your Airplane Travel
Every flight you take uses a huge amount of C02. The easiest way to reduce your carbon footprint is simply to fly less. On the occasions where you do fly, you can help offset your contributions to carbon emissions. Many airlines offer carbon emission offset programs, or you can donate to a reputable environmental charity.
Don’t Over-Bargain
In many developing countries, bargaining is expected when shopping locally. Be careful not to over bargain, as many of these vendors rely on tourism for their livelihood. A few dollars may not be a lot to you but can be to these shop owners.
Avoid Single-Use Plastics
Skip the travel-sized toiletries aisle and opt-in for reusable containers than you can refill before each trip. Bonus points if you also bring along a reusable straw to avoid excess plastic waste!
Research Any Unethical Wildlife Tourism Companies
Always research companies that host animal tourism like elephant riding in Thailand or swimming with dolphins before you book a tour. Many of these companies engage in unethical and inhumane animal treatment of their animals. Supporting these types of tourism encourages the continual poor treatment of these animals.
Take Advantage of Your Hotel’s Green Initiatives
Many hotels offer green programs in-room. Requesting to not have your sheets changed or reusing your towels more than once can help cut down on water waste. You don’t change your sheets every day at home, do you?
Now that you’re an environmentally-friendly traveling pro, check out these 5 secrets to becoming the master of your next flight!
