A 2019 Sustainable Travel Report shows that 55% of travelers are more committed to sustainable travel. Nevertheless, not all travelers understand what green travel is or sustainable packing. It is possible that ecotourism offered by travel agencies may be greenwashing. It is important to know what ecotourism is before diving into it.
Define Green Traveling
Jon Bruno, of the International Ecotourism Society, defined sustainable or green travel in a post from 2017 on The Washington Post. He said that it is about having a positive effect on communities you visit. This does not mean you have to sleep in a tent or cook with a solar-powered portable stove.
Ecotourism is about making simple choices when traveling that will help you reduce your carbon footprint. You should also be able to tell if a company offers green travel or is just greenwashing. We have listed some quick tips for green travel and how to do your part in protecting the environment.
Zero Waste Travel Items
It’s true: traveling leaves a huge carbon footprint. This is especially true if you are going on an international trip. There are ways to reduce the negative environmental impact of your travel.
You can pack lighter by complying with the dimensions of carry-on luggage accepted by your airline. If you didn’t know, a heavy vehicle, whether it be an airplane, car, bus or other mode of transport, will use more fuel. More fuel means more carbon footprint.
Pack the following Zero Waste Travel Items.
Reusable Bag
It is easy to live a zero-waste lifestyle while on the road by carrying a reusable bag. It allows you to reduce the amount of plastic that is used for single-use. You can, for example, use it to store souvenirs you’ve bought.
Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
You can also reduce the amount of plastic you use by not using shampoo or conditioner in small bottles. Choose conditioner bars or shampoo bar instead.
The fact that these bars do not contain any chemicals is a great thing. It can last for up to 200 washings depending on your hair length. You can use the shampoo bar to wash your body, which is one less item on your packing list.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
The chemicals in sunscreens can harm coral reefs and marine wildlife. If you’re going to the seaside, you should be careful about what you put on your skin. We recommend using reef safe sunscreen for ethical scuba diving.
Portable Solar Charger
Last but not the least, using a solar charger will reduce your electricity consumption. You can drape the solar charger over your backpack to absorb power. You can charge your phone while on the move!
You can leave your solar charger by the window if you’re just staying at your accommodation. This will ensure that it gets as much sun as possible.
Sustainability in Packaging
By 2050, it is predicted that tourism will account for 40% of global carbon emissions. We can compensate for this by making the right choices. It is important to pack sustainably, in addition to the zero-waste travel items. Why should you pack sustainably then?
Reduce Waste Pollution
Plastic waste that you throw away and use can add to the pollution of our oceans and land. We recommend using reusable water bottles and bags, shampoo bars, and sunscreen that is reef-safe. It is important to limit the use of single-use plastics.
Your contribution to the planet might appear small. Imagine if we all practiced sustainable travel. We could divert tons of plastic waste from landfills.
Save Luggage Space
Imagine packing a bottle each of shampoo, conditioner and soap. Not only is it heavy, but it takes up a lot space in your suitcase. Even if they fit in your luggage, you are less likely to be able to bring them as carry-on at the airport. This is because airlines don’t allow liquids or aerosols to be brought in carry-on bags that exceed 100ml. If you’re looking to pack light and travel, choose small, environmentally friendly travel items.
Saving Money
Frequent travelers pack lightly to avoid additional baggage fees. Bring a reusable bottle to avoid buying bottled waters every time you are thirsty. You can refill your BPA free water bottle at any water filling station.
Reduces Negative Effect
Sustainable packing is a great way to minimize the environmental impact of your travels. It allows you to reduce waste you would have otherwise sent to landfill. You are also not causing damage to aquatic wildlife. Third, by traveling light, you can reduce the carbon emissions from your chosen mode of transport. You can do your part and still travel, something you enjoy.
You should not “binge fly” just because you are wealthy and have time. Binge-flying is when you travel more than necessary. You can still do things to protect the environment as you travel. Making the right decisions and taking baby steps is all it takes.