Extreme weather events are becoming part of our daily news, often bringing tragic human casualties and severe environmental damage. Having spent much of my professional life traveling, I’ve cherished the opportunities to learn about new cultures, enjoy diverse cuisines, and meet people from around the world. However, after the COVID-19 pandemic, travel surged to such an extent that overtourism became a pressing issue. In parts of Europe and Asia, local communities even staged protests calling for limits on visitors.
Fortunately, awareness of sustainable travel is growing. Sustainable travel means exploring the world while minimizing harm to the environment, respecting local cultures and communities, and making thoughtful choices that support the local economy. While some tourism companies are making strides toward sustainability, the responsibility ultimately rests with each traveler.
Here are some practical ways to travel more sustainably:
- Choose greener transportation.
Whenever possible, travel by train or bus instead of flying. If flying is unavoidable, check the carbon footprint of your flights—many airlines now provide this information. You can also minimize emissions by flying into a major hub and continuing your journey by rail, especially in regions like Europe and parts of Asia where rail systems are extensive and reliable. And it's usually better to fly non-stop if possible, rather than using connecting flights to get to your destination. Lots of fuel is used on take-off and landings.
If you're travelling in the Northeast coast of the U.S., Amtrak features fast trains through many major cities. - Travel off-peak and support eco-friendly accommodations.
Visiting popular destinations during less busy times helps reduce the strain on local communities and ecosystems. When booking accommodations, look for properties with credible green certifications, such as Green Globe or Beyond Green. Europe, in particular, is leading many initiatives in sustainable travel. - Adopt simple eco-friendly habits.
Even if flying and mainstream hotels are your only options, small actions can make a difference. Bring a reusable water bottle, decline daily housekeeping services, reuse towels, and remember to turn off lights, heating, and air-conditioning when leaving your room. These small steps, when multiplied by millions of travelers, can significantly reduce waste and energy use.
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