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Travel brings us up close to some of our planet’s most stunning natural wonders and connects us with cultures around the globe. But It also has the power to change places and the lives of the people who live there – for better or worse. We need to become a sustainable traveler!
That’s why as travelers, we need to be aware of some tips to avoid damage to the environment and the societies we visit.
According to a Sustainable Travel Study 2022 by Expedia, 50% of international travelers would pay more for sustainable travel options, and 74% would ‘choose destinations and accommodation that support local communities and cultures’. At the same time, however, many people feel the burden of planning such trips because there is a lack of information on ‘sustainable tourism.’ Respondents said they want information from reliable sources, such as official destination websites.
Do you want to learn more? Keep reading!
Staying close to home
When thinking about how to reduce our individual carbon footprints, one of the simplest ways to cut back on emissions is to fly less often. But for those who want to see the world, there are ways to make trips more sustainable, including where you go, what you pack, and how you decide to get there. As a general rule, the shorter the distance from home you travel, the lower your carbon footprint. But if you want to go farther, some destinations are more sustainable than others.
Local adventures are among the greenest forms of travel. If you want to venture just a little farther, consider driving a few hours to a beach or forest.
Places that need your support
One of the ways you can best help areas in need is to travel to destinations that are rebuilding after a disaster. Puerto Rico, for example, has developed a robust tourism sector since weathering a devastating hurricane in 2017. Actually, the island, which also faces sea level rise, was picked as The Times’ No. 1 destination in 2019, in part because it represents many fragile places around the world.
Visiting a Coast
If you’re planning a trip to any coastal destination, choosing one with a Marine Protected Area is another way to ensure the involvement of local communities in protecting landscapes and aquatic life, as well as to become a sustainable traveler!
The attainment of sustainable coastal tourism goals also depends on multidisciplinary tourism research, enhanced broker-broker communication and cooperation, and the commitment of tourists to be alert to ecological and cultural consequences of their travel.
Look for local experiences
Homestays, local guides, and programs that give back to communities are also good ways to ensure your money is injected back into the local economy.
Eco-friendly booking site for accommodation
Sites like bookdifferent.com calculate your carbon footprint per night based on your selection and include eco-friendly ratings. Choose accommodation that injects money back into the local economy.
And if you’re looking for sustainable business travel, don’t hesitate and check TROOP! We offer all the data related to carbon footprint, as well as costs, time, and safety, so you can make informed decisions. Want to know more? Book a demo with us!