By Bali, one of the hottest destinations for the last decade has declared a “garbage emergency.” Images of its beautiful beaches, covered in plastic and trash have circulated the net. If like many people, you too enjoy travelling the world and seeing all its stunning corners, then let’s make a deal – right here and right now – to tread softly and to take better care of the beauty we so enjoy.
Travelling is about learning and appreciating the diversity in culture and landscape all over the world. One of the best ways of showing our love and appreciation for nature is through our practices. Here are my top 5 tips to help you travel green and eco-friendly.
Think about your transport.
Let’s be real about one thing: when it comes to environmental sustainability, flying sucks! That said, it’s not always possible to avoid it entirely. But there are ways of reducing our flying. First, when possible choose other forms of transport. Training or carpooling can be a good alternative. You may have to consider fewer but longer trips.
Thinking about your transport goes beyond flying. If you’re in the city, hopping on a bike may be better then using a taxi for example. The point is to always consider how you get from place to place, and always opt for the better and more eco-friendly option.
Think about what you eat.
When it comes to sustainability, one of the biggest factors is definitely our diet. The animal and dairy industries are extremely resource intensive. Also, they produce so much waste and toxins. So if you want to think about green travels, think about where you eat and what you eat. Whenever you can, choose vegetarian and plant-based meals. You have no idea how much good you’ll be doing for the planet. Happy Cow is a great app to help you find all the best veggie restaurants.
LINK: https://www.happycow.net/
Think about what you consume.
The less you buy the more eco-friendly you live. It’s that simple. So while you’re out there enjoying yourself, try to say no to shopping. Instead enjoy your experience! You don’t need things, what you need is to focus on your trip, to enjoy every moment and make memories. When you do choose to buy, do your research. Buy from local and ethical brands and support the community in which you’ve enjoy a holiday in. It only makes sense.
Think about the waste you leave behind.
Plan your trip so that you don’t create landfill waste. If you’re a coffee lover, then carry your reusable mug with you. Maybe a few tote bags to avoid single-use plastic bags? How about a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated?
Think about nature.
Living with the planet in mind means we have to take care of it. You love the oceans? Then clean them up. If you see trash by the coast, pick it up. You can do your part as an individual. Just imagine how much would change if everyone felt this way. Spread the word by using the #5minutebeachcleanup.
Go on. Travel the world and enjoy all the beauty it has to offer. But remember, that if we want the generations after us to also see what it has to offer, then we have to do our part today!