The more I see of the world, the more it upsets me that, if things continue as they are, spotting lions swaggering across the Savannah, orangutans swinging through the jungles of Borneo and being mesmerised by the underwater kingdom of the Great Barrier Reef will soon be folk lore – the stuff of picture books and nostalgic memory. And much like many millennials, I often ask myself what can I do to prevent this from happening?
From personal experience, I believe that travel ingrains a heightened sense of awareness of our planet, a sensitivity to other cultures and helps us to look at things from a global scale. However, as many know, travel itself is actually a contributing factor to climate change (plant those trees after a flight people) so it sometimes feels like a bit of a catch 22.
But what if there was a way you could minimise the impact on the planet whilst exploring its magnificence? Green travel, veganism and sustainability should not be seen as a kitsch trend it should be seen as a prolonged lifestyle choice that help us make more eco-friendly decisions.
Over the months to come I will be developing eco-travel guides for destinations around the world to help inspire you to travel with soul. And whilst it might not always be the easy option ask yourself 'when did anything rewarding come easy?'.
First up here's 9 tips to get you started...
1. I carried a waterbottle?
I understand that in a lot of countries water refills may cause severe illness but check the hotel or hostel you're staying at as they may have a large water tank you can use. For most of Europe, Canada, US, Australia and other developed countries there's no excuse not to carry a reusable bottle and fill it up at the tap.
2. Say NO to the straw
Yes, that fresh coconut pic at sunset will look even more insta-heaven with a straw in the top - but that plastic creation will be littering that beach forever. If you're cocktail just isn't a cocktail without one – purchase a metal or bamboo straw and take it on the road with you.
3. Keep calm and carry a reusable bag
In a lot of destinations the locals simply don't get why you don't want the plastic bag they're throwing at you. We believe in you traveller, stay strong, kindly smile and let them now you have one already. If that fails frantically begin putting the items in your own bag before they get there with the plastic first.
4. Work those legs
When exploring new destinations, so many hidden spots can be uncovered with a long walking sesh. Plus, you're not on a time frame right? So, release that inner 'flaneur' and amble for hours. Need to cover more ground? Grab a bike and cycle it - a great way of seeing the sights and burning off that 'I'm on my holiday' indulgent food.
5. Choose wisely
Don't just look for the free-wifi sign, do a bit of research and read the accommodation's environmental policies and sustainability efforts that are important to you (be aware of the BS). In some areas of the world 'eco-resorts' and 'eco-hostels' are easier to come by than others.
6. I'll have it in
Eating IN in restaurants and cafes is likely to reduce waste as opposed to take-out that often comes in a plastic wrapper or container. In places like Southeast Asia this is hardly a struggle - fresh and fragrant pho sitting amongst the locals? Sounds dreamy.
7. Beef? Beef tomato more like
With veganism on the rise and nations like India and Asia whizzing up delicious veggie dishes – travellers no longer have to stress about going meat free. Tip – learn the word for no meat/ vegetarian (or other allergies) so you can communicate your food requirements to the locals.
And on that note... if you haven't watched the documentaries, read the stats or listened to the podcasts newsflash – agriculture and particularly the consumption of beef are the biggest contributors to climate change. You gave up chocolate for lent, even went on a juice cleanse so why not give up beef for life (or even just in the week) and avoid it whilst abroad.
8. Embrace local living
When in 'insert country' do as the locals do. Eat locally grown food, visit craft and farmers markets for local produce, hear the locals' stories and respect your surroundings.
9. Use less and do good
Heading somewhere for a little longer? Why not volunteer in local projects that help benefit the local community and its surrounds. Think working with elephants, helping to maintain coral and teaching children so they can thrive in the future.
See published article here:
http://www.contiki.com/six-two/9-eco-friendly-travel-tips/