7 Tips for Choosing Sustainable Activities During Travel

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Love to travel but looking for ways to have a more positive impact on the planet? It is possible to travel sustainably. Read on for 7 tips for choosing sustainable activities during travel. 
Traveling can be the most fulfilling way to escape your daily grind and explore new destinations. But as the tourism industry grows, so does its environmental impact. Therefore, thinking about sustainability and how you can positively impact the local communities you visit is essential. In this article, Vikki Nicolai of La Crosse will provide tips on choosing sustainable activities for a responsible and enjoyable trip.
1. Research Before You Book Your Activities
Before making any bookings, research the different tourist activities available in the area you’re visiting. Ensure they align with your values and prioritize sustainable activities that respect local cultures and communities. For example, instead of visiting animal parks or zoos, consider visiting eco-sanctuaries or conservation centers that actively work towards protecting endangered species and their habitats.
Also, learning about the destination’s culture, people, and environment is important. This will help you to understand what activities are sustainable and ethical. For example, if you are traveling to a coastal town, you can look for activities such as beach cleanups or ocean conservation programs.
Look for ways to give back to places you visit. Photo by Kar-Tr via iStock by Getty Images
2. Choose Locally-Owned Tours and Accommodations
When booking tours or accommodations, try to choose locally-owned businesses that are invested in the local community. This way, your money goes to support the local economy, which has a ripple effect in the community. Local business owners are also more likely to provide sustainable practices, like using locally-sourced products or implementing environmentally-friendly policies .
Additionally, small businesses are the backbone of most local economies, so supporting them when traveling is essential. Shopping at locally-owned boutiques and markets can benefit the community and provide unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. Look for small businesses that offer eco-friendly products like handmade crafts or organic produce – your purchases will make a big difference!
3. Minimize Your Waste Production
Traveling can generate a lot of waste, which impacts the environment and local communities. Reduce waste production by drinking from a reusable water bottle, bringing your reusable bags when shopping, and avoiding single-use plastics. You can also opt for eco-friendly accommodation that offers recycling facilities or composting.
One of the benefits of traveling is that you get to experience different cultures, explore new places, and have unforgettable memories. Following sustainable practices during travel can ensure the environment and local communities benefit from tourism.
4. Use Public Transportation or Walk
If you’re looking for an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint, using public transportation or walking can be a great option. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also a great way to see the local sights and engage with the community. If public transportation is not an option, consider ride-sharing services that prioritize sustainability, like electric or hybrid vehicles.
Use public transportation when you travel. Photo courtesy Pixabay
Another way to reduce your impact is to avoid flying and opt for longer, slower journeys. This will allow you to experience different cultures, customs, local art, music, and cuisine.
5. Choose Ethical Activities that Support Communities
When choosing activities, look for ones that positively support local communities. Activities like volunteering, cultural immersion, and community-led tours not only support the local community but also provide an opportunity to learn about the values and traditions of the destination. Ensure your chosen activities are conducted ethically, respecting local people and cultures.
You can also look for businesses that are making an effort to reduce their impact on the environment. Look for companies that use eco-friendly materials, have energy-saving policies, and support local initiatives.
6. Avoid Activities That Exploit People, Animals, or the Environment
Stay away from activities that exploit people, animals, or the environment. This includes activities that involve elephant riding, tiger petting, or any other form of animal exploitation. Additionally, avoid activities that infringe upon the environment’s well-being, like off-roading on sensitive ecosystems or buying products made using non-sustainable materials.
Additionally, ensure that your chosen activities are conducted ethically and respect local people and cultures. Seek out businesses that practice fair wages, use sustainable materials, and provide a safe workplace environment for their staff.
7. Engage with Local Organizations and Groups
Engage with local organizations and groups that work to improve the sustainability and well-being of the place you’re visiting. Whether it’s participating in a beach cleanup or spending time volunteering with environmentally-focused organizations, make sure your visit leaves a positive impact on the local community.
One way to ensure you’re having a sustainable trip is to be mindful of your actions and choices. Do your research and prioritize activities supporting local communities and reducing your environmental impact.
Consider your actions before and during travel to find more sustainable options. Photo by Michael Weis via iStock by Getty Images
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Sustainable Activities During Travel
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey, these tips shared by Vikki Nicolai of La Crosse can help you make your trip more sustainable. By choosing locally-owned businesses, minimizing waste production, and avoiding activities that exploit people, animals, or the environment, you can travel in a way that respects the world’s diverse cultures and environments. Don’t forget to stay curious and engaged with your destination and help make a difference as you travel.
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