Travelling is an amazing way of getting to know new cultures, know people and make memories. But when we’re on the go, we sometimes end up damaging the environment without realizing. Our journeys can have a huge impact on nature – from the fuel we burn to plastic waste. The good news is, earth-friendly travel doesn’t have to be costly. With a few intelligent decisions, however, you can lessen the impact on the planet and save money in the process.
Choose Public Transport Over Taxis
Using buses, trains and metros is one of the simplest ways to travel green. Public transport will be environmentally friendly and easy on your pocket compared to the expensive private taxi or cabs. Many cities also offer day passes or full-lob access cards that make getting around cheaper still.
Stay in Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Now many hotels and guesthouses are advertising themselves as environmentally friendly. They use solar power, recycle waste and minimize water consumption. Their mission is supported by staying at those places, and the cost often compares with that for ordinary hotels. You can also opt for homestays or hostels that are more affordable and less harmful to the environment.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle and Shopping Bag
Plastic waste is one of the scourges on tourism. Don’t buy plastic water bottles and bags; bring your own reusable bottle and cloth bag. Your bottle can be refilled at the clean water station, and you can also use the bag for shopping. This little habit is profitable and keeps the environment clean.
Travel Light
When you hoist a heavy bag into an overhead bin, buses or planes or cars need more fuel. Packing all of your things in one bag will not only make your trip more manageable, but it may also save fuel. Keep it down to the basics and leave behind anything you really don’t need.
Support Local Food and Products
If you go out for dinner, hit local instead of big food chains. Local food is fresh, good value for money and hasn’t had to travel great distances to get it you plate. Likewise, purchase souvenirs created by local craftsmen.” This way you’re supporting the local economy and slashing the carbon footprint associated with imported goods.
Walk or Bike for Short Trips
If you’re headed somewhere close, opt to walk or bike instead of calling a cab. Many holiday destinations also hire out cycles at very reasonable prices. Walking and biking are good for you, for your pocketbook and for the environment.
Avoid Over-Touristed Spots
Over-tourism in popular destination locations is characterized by congestion, pollution and abdominal pricing. Discover other places not on the tourist map, where your money benefits local people. You’ll also have the peace of winding down without too many tourists around.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
A few companies permit you to calculate your carbon footprint and invest in eco-projects, such as tree planting, in exchange. This is optional, but it’s an important way to mitigate the impact of long-distance travel, particularly air travel.
FAQs:
Q1. Is eco-friendly travel more expensive?
No, it can often be cheaper. Public transport, homestay and local food are typically cheaper than luxury alternatives.
Q2. How can I stay off plastic when I travel?
Bring a reusable bottle, steel straw and cloth bag along. Numerous cafes now offer free refills, or fill them for a small fee.
Q3. Are eco-hotels safe and comfortable?
Yes, eco-hotels are up to snuff for the most part. They emphasize energy and waste savings without compromising comfort.
Q4. Can I fly if I want to travel eco-consciously?
Flying does pollute, but you can mitigate the burden by flying less, traveling light and offsetting carbon via green projects.
Q5. What is the easiest environmentally friendly travel habit to adopt first?
Holding a reusable water bottle and turning down the use of plastic bags is the simplest initial step.