An upcoming and increasingly popular phenomenon in the world of travel and tourism is ecotourism. Ecotourism refers to travelling to the remote undisturbed, sometimes rural underdeveloped areas of the world to increase one’s knowledge, provide financial aid, generate awareness and foster respect for other communities. Visiting remote places with natural flora and fauna may not always be possible, due to time or financial constraint. But that does not have to stop you from having an eco-friendly holiday no matter where you travel.
If you are someone who is eco-conscious and eco-friendly then you must have heard about a green vacation. It may seem hard having to abide by eco-friendly manners while on vacation, but it is actually quite easy. You can all follow some simple steps to achieve an eco-friendly holiday for the benefit of the environment. When you are following and eco-friendly lifestyle at home, why not follow it on a holiday as well? You don’t have to put in much effort or spend more money than necessary. All you need is a well chalked out plan, dedication and awareness for the environment.
- Choosing a location
The first and foremost thing you need to think about is where to go. It is advisable to choose a place that is nearer to your home, thereby avoiding air travel. The lesser you have to travel, the lesser your carbon footprint is. Also, try to pick a location that is remote, underdeveloped or needs economic help. Thereby once you reach the place, you can contribute somewhat by participating in various activities like planting trees or educating street children. You can even donate to the charities there. Instead of opting for mass tourism places choose a relatively less known place. That does not mean you cannot enjoy your vacation. Keep a few days reserved for sightseeing.
- Question of transportation
The next thing that comes to our mind when we think of going on a vacation is the question of transport. Do we travel by air or water or land? It all depends on where you are going. As discussed before, travel to locations which are in close proximities so you can avoid air travel which accounts for nearly ten percent of green house gas emissions. If you cannot avoid air travels at least stick to a direct flight. Also once you reach there; try to avail public transport while sightseeing. In place of cabs or cars, take public buses. This also reduces your carbon footprint. Cycling is another great alternative that offsets your your carbon footprint.
- Choosing a place to stay
There are many eco-friendly hotels that have opened up in the last few years. Gather detailed information about all the hotels in the area you are visiting. Now read up on their credits to find out how much they are keeping the environment in mind while doing business. Do they have proper waste management? Do they use eco- friendly lights? Are they centrally located? Do they serve organic food? Do they use low VOC cleaning products in their rooms? Ask these questions first before making your decision. If their brochure does not have the required information, call them up and ask them directly.
- Travel light
It is always a good idea to travel light. Lighter bags account for lower fuel emissions. Not only that, it reduces travelling cost. You too don’t have to worry about the luggage all the time. The luggage should also be carefully packed the eco-friendly way. Your bag should contain batteries, recycled toilet paper, organic soap and shampoo and a reusable bottle of water.
- What happens once you reach
When you finally reach your destination, what should you do? There are some guidelines which you should follow to have a green holiday. They are as follows-
- Don’t litter. Also, put any plastics that you have for recycling.
- Don’t disturb the natural habitat. If you are visiting a forest or a zoo, don’t disturb the animals or feed them anything. Moreover, don’t pluck flowers or fruits from the garden.
- Visit the local market and buy some fresh produce to help the local economy.
- Participate in fun eco-friendly activities or environmental programs while visiting a place.
- Don’t buy souvenirs made from animal parts. The animals may be endangered.
- Don’t touch or write anything on historic artefacts or monuments.
- Avoid buying or using plastic bottles. Carry reusable bottles with you. Also, don’t waste or throw away water.
- Try to reduce your carbon footprint by switching off lights, fans and air conditioners when you leave the hotel room. Furthermore, switch off your laptop or television when not in use.
- Try to wash your own clothes. Don’t waste too much water while doing it.
This comprehensive guide will surely help you out the next time you think of travelling green. Don’t forget to add your own ideas to it.
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