Sustainable Travel: Preserving Our Favourite Destinations for the Future

Travel and adventure are two sides of the same coin, offering us thrilling experiences in breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures. These journeys expose us to the untouched corners of the world and allow us to appreciate new cultures and indulge our spirit of exploration, creating lifelong memories in the process. The enriching experiences obtainable through travel and tourism are many, but the importance of sustainable travel is becoming increasingly evident.

As the footprint of tourism grows, so does its impact on the very places we aim to explore.
When worldwide tourism is placed side by side with the growing awareness of climate change, global warming, and carbon emissions, there is a real and evolving dilemma to be resolved.

Today’s adventurers face a dual challenge: to continue seeking out new horizons while also protecting and preserving them. As lovers of nature and exploration, it’s our duty to ensure that our passion for adventure doesn’t compromise the pristine beauty of our favorite destinations. Everybody – regardless of how extensively they travel – needs to take more sustainable initiatives and make more eco-friendly decisions.

The Environmental Impact of Tourism’s Emissions

Annually, the travel industry contributes to around 11% of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Forecasts suggest that without swift intervention, carbon emissions from travel and tourism could double by 2050. To reach a Net Zero target, emissions from the transport sector need to fall by a quarter by 2030, even as the demand for travel intensifies. Similarly, if left unaddressed, air travel on its own could consume up to 25% of the global carbon budget by 2050, with its emissions potentially multiplying two or three times.
Another emerging concern is e-waste Connected to travel, the surge in discarded electrical items is rising by 2 million tonnes annually and could reach a staggering 120 million tonnes by 2050. Without conscious efforts (such as buying gently-used electrical goods that still offer quality and value for money) we risk magnifying landfill issues and releasing harmful chemicals into the environment.

Such statistics highlight the urgent need for adventurers to champion sustainable travel practices. By embracing small yet meaningful changes, we can collectively make a difference in fighting climate change. Opting for lower-impact travel choices that have a lesser environmental toll will in turn contribute to preserving destinations.

What’s at Stake If We Neglect Sustainable Travel?

If collective efforts of both travellers and the tourism industry as a whole fall short in curbing carbon emissions, the long-term consequences could be devastating.

Famed travel destinations risk irreversible harm from mounting pollution, loss of habitats, degradation of ecosystems and the introduction of invasive species.

The natural features, landscapes, and history that form the basis of many destinations’ aesthetic and cultural appeal could be lost. For instance, coral reefs are at risk of imminent disintegration, and glaciers are poised to melt much faster than anticipated.

When tourism’s unchecked emissions intertwine with those of other sectors, the acceleration of climate repercussions could hasten the impacts of climate change. This may result in rising sea levels, increased frequency of extreme weather events and subsequent upheavals in economies and communities.

Embracing sustainable travel is not just conceptual – it is imperative to safeguard the survival of the world’s most prestigious and beloved places.

Benefits of Travelling More Sustainably

Venturing into the realms of eco-conscious travel may initially seem demanding, requiring additional planning, preparation and effort, but the long-term payoffs easily outweigh your initial invested time and consideration.

There are many virtues to sustainable travel:

• Preservation of Unique Destinations: As carbon-intensive activities decrease remote or secular cultures can flourish, preserving their distinct identity for years to come.
• Richer, Authentic Experiences: Supporting greener modes of transportation allows travellers to immerse themselves in unspoiled natural areas and genuinely connect with local communities.
• Boosting Local Economies: Sustainable travel ensures that tourism revenue is channelled into local businesses, rather than international corporations. This in turn benefits the local communities.
• Guarding Heritage and Biodiversity: By treading lightly and responsibly, heritage sites and ecosystems can be preserved for future generations to cherish.
• Empowerment through Action: By making eco-friendly choices in how we travel, stay and explore, every individual can gain confidence and take pride in their proactive stance. They can be assured that they are actively contributing towards the global fight against climate change.

With mindfulness and purpose, we can continue fulfilling travel dreams in a way that can reduce our carbon footprint, leaving people and places better off.

How to Travel More Sustainably

Opt for Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Research carefully before booking and seek out approved and reputable hotels, hostels and lodges that are known for their sustainable practices. These may include programmes to conserve water and energy, reduce waste, source local and organic foods, and support nearby communities.

If you’re looking for a closer-to-nature experience, consider camping or glamping options that utilise solar power, practice composting, and avoid single-use plastics.

In addition, giving preference to locally-owned accommodation facilities rather than large, globally-recognised hotel chains, offers more opportunity to be amongst those more closely connected to their environment.
 Choose locations that prioritise minimalism and sustainability, avoiding those that extensively use disposable or harmful products.

Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation

The mode of transport you choose plays a pivotal role in your carbon footprint. By gravitating towards more eco-friendly, lower-impact transport alternatives, some significant savings could be made.

Consider the following lower-impact transportation alternatives:

• Trains: An energy-efficient option in many regions of the world.
• Buses: These produce far fewer emissions per passenger compared to flying.
• Ride shares: Opt for shared shuttles, vans or carpooling when possible.
• Electric vehicles: Use electric rental cars or scooters to get around quickly.
• Cycling: Explore destinations by bicycle to be eco-friendly and healthy at the same time.
• Walking: By avoiding transport altogether, you can achieve zero emissions!
  
  

If flying, try to take direct flights, choose economy seating (which has the smallest carbon footprint per passenger), and consider donating to carbon offset programmes to ensure that you are giving back to the natural environment.

Engage in Eco-Friendly Activities

Finding sustainable activity providers ensures your travel adventure positively impacts local communities and environments.

Some things to look for include:

• Businesses rooted in the community that employ local residents and encourage local participation.
• Activities harnessing renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind.
• Providers recognised and accredited by sustainability organisations.
• Learning experiences that focus on conservation and environmental awareness.
• Strict policies that minimise environmental impact.
• Leave No Trace principles, especially in natural settings.
  
  

Great eco-friendly activities include mountaineering, skiing, hiking, cycling, kayaking, community tours, wildlife viewing, surfing, and sailing.

Empowering Local Communities Through Tourism

The most sustainable travel strengthens small communities and businesses rather than compromising their cultural integrity or economic stability.

Some ways to support local economies include:

• Choosing to stay in community-owned hostels, lodges and B&Bs.
  
  
• Hiring local guides to provide insights and advice about an area.
• Dining at family-run restaurants that showcase local cuisine and delicacies.
• Shopping at local markets, co-ops, and artisan studios.
• Participating in authentic cultural experiences.
• Contributing to local charities and conservation efforts.
  
  

Building connections with local residents enhances your experience while directly benefiting the destinations you visit.

Pioneering Minimal-Impact Travel

Every choice you make on your journey can inch us closer to a more sustainable travel culture. Here are some easy sustainable travel tips:

• Pack lightweight and only your essentials.
• Equip yourself with reusable items such as bottles, bags, and containers.
• Opt for public transport and cycling, rather than taxis and driving.
• Be mindful of resources, conserving water and electricity in accommodation.
• Eat vegetarian and vegan food more frequently.
• Properly dispose of waste and champion recycling where possible.
• Avoid souvenirs made from endangered plants and animals.
  
  

By taking these sustainable considerations into account for future trips, we can not only guarantee our continued amazing adventures but preserve destinations for generations to come.