Whether you’re traveling for work or taking the globetrotting adventure of a lifetime, there’s no denying that traveling can take a toll on the environment. That’s not saying people shouldn’t experience the wonderful world they live in, but rather that you should try to be as eco-conscious as you can — every little bit helps. More and more people are actually becoming aware of their carbon footprint and the effects they’re leaving on the world.
It’s due to this realization that many are beginning to incorporate eco-conscious travel into their itinerary. In fact, many Gen Zer’s have expressed the desire to change the way we all travel: with 56% of Gen Z’ers saying they prefer — and enjoy staying in –environmentally friendly lodgings.
Green travel is important because, with global tourism accessible to everyone, carbon pollution is increasing — with 8% being directly tied to global tourism. This takes into account your travel methods to your destination as well as where you stay and what you do there.
For example, Caribbean cruises have been estimated to produce over 70,000 tons of waste a year. Likewise, they are also a large cause of coral reefs being destroyed due to tourist activities, sewage, and their use in commercial sales. Hotels are also notorious for the amount of water that they use and the amount of excess waste they produce. Hotel guests are estimated to use up to 10 times the amount of water that a local resident uses.
When you are eco-conscious as you’re traveling, you start to become more aware of your habits as a tourist. That’s why it’s important to take into account what you’re doing in the places you visit and understand the impact you can have.
First, Do Your “Green” Research
Green traveling involves doing a little bit of research and altering the way you do things. But it doesn’t have to be difficult at all. For example, instead of staying at a large chain hotel, look up local Bed and Breakfasts or other local hospitality establishments. Not only are they more environmentally conscious, but you support the local economy as well.
Cutting down carbon emissions to zero when traveling on a plane or with a car is practically impossible, but you are able to significantly minimize it. If you’re traveling through the air, book non-stop flights and use electronic tickets. this will keep cut down on emissions and produce less waste. If you’re using a car, try to rent a hybrid vehicle, or opt for more public methods of transportation.
Don’t forget to respect the places you go to. Do your research on appropriate activities, and see if anything you’re doing is harmful to the local ecosystem. You want to remain as environmentally responsible as you can. Remember, you want to treat all destinations the way you would want your home to be treated if someone were visiting you. That means treating and taking care of everything with respect and staying conscious of the places you go — and acting with an environmentally, economically, and socially responsible mindset.
Key Tips for Eco-Conscious Travel
Although this all may seem like a lot to take in, CarRentals has you covered. They created a wonderful infographic that you can check out below, detailing the golden rules of sustainable traveling.
Check it out and start planning your next amazing (and green) trip today.
What are your favorite tips for eco-friendly travel?
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