From all the things we read online and see on the news regarding global warming almost daily, it can feel daunting as just one person to make lasting change when it comes to saving the environment. Especially when traveling where some things are out of your control and spontaneous moments tend to happen. However, if you are a frequent traveler here are some things you should keep in mind and practices that you can do to help reduce your waste and impact on the environment. It’s more than just cutting down on your plastic consumption and being mindful. The world is moving towards a more sustainable way of traveling which encompasses not just the physical but also the abstract. We need to take into account the effects tourism has on people, culture and economy.
The first suggestion by many may be an obvious one. It is to take public transportation when you are visiting other countries. Taking a taxi everywhere may be more convenient to you, but if you really take into account your impact when exploring, it is best to take public transportation. There are many options from buses, trains, trams and even bicycles. If language barrier is your main qualm when taking public transport since not all signs are translated to English, you may always use google maps to help you out. And if after using the app and asking the locals you are still lost, well, look on the bright side. Isn’t that the fun of traveling? An unexpected adventure? Kidding aside, if you do your research before you leave your hotel and download and take screenshots of the maps and directions, theoretically you should be well equipped enough to brave the public transportation of any country.
In regard to the sustainable development goals of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) you might be wondering how you can help the economy. Well, for a start, whenever you are visiting another country or even another part of your own country, it is suggested that you shop locally. Avoid the malls and large establishments and opt for those buzzing street markets and local craft stores. It’s not only a fun day out but when you shop locally, you help the local economy too and the small business owners make their living. Another thing you can do is avoid large international hotel chains. Most places have their own hotels and hostels that are owned by locals and offer decent rooms and service with great hospitality. Just spend a few extra minutes online when you are booking your accommodation. You’ll surely find some great stays that are not part of those large chains and companies who have already established themselves globally. Help out a local entrepreneur once in a while.
In terms of economy there is something else you can do. When going to another place I think we can all agree that after we book our accommodation, we usually look for places to eat. When planning your meals, once again, get local! It’s not only a great way to support the local economy since local establishments will most likely be making use of local produce too, but you’ll also discover some of the best food you'll ever have. There’s nothing like those well-known national dishes that have been made with a recipe that is passed down through generations. Some of the best food is found in local family run restaurants or even street stalls and market stands. If you are worried about hygiene or the quality, it’s always important to use your discernment. Look out for those stalls or places where a lot of the locals are eating. Usually if you see a crowd around it then it means it has some local notoriety and probably offers some great dishes.
Lastly, we have what feels like the never-ending fight with single use plastics. Although many changes have been made like moving to paper straws or using alternative material to plastic, it’s still not enough. When we travel, we find ourselves buying bottles of water especially when we’re in a pinch. However, we can avoid this by bringing out our own reusable water bottles or flasks. Most airports have drinking fountains where you can refill your bottles.
Some cities do have free public water fountains or refill stations too. If you find that you are in a place that maybe isn’t equipped with those, then you can always refill your bottle when you are out to eat. Whether a restaurant or market stall, they will usually fill your bottle for free, or for a small price. If you are concerned about the safety of the water and how clean it is, you can always invest in a water bottle that has a built-in purifier or filter. Bottles with built in purifiers are best to bring around especially if you plan to go places that are more off grid and far away from large cities. It is an investment since they are definitely not priced the same as regular water bottles, but if you travel enough, it is surely worth the money. Not only are you saving money from purchasing water, but you are also going to cut down on your plastic consumption.
These may seem like small changes and very easy things to incorporate to your travel itinerary and packing which may feel insignificant. But take a moment to imagine if we all did this. If we were all responsible when we travel, then surely it is enough to make an impact. And if we want to travel and enjoy the scenery of our planet for many more years to come, then we need to start somewhere, no matter how small. Every little thing we do matters.
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