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Being unable to travel for the past two years has had so many of us itching to hop on a plane, take some time off and explore. But, in the last few years, our priorities have changed, and we’ve become much more aware of the impact our air miles have on the rest of the world.
According to research by Booking.com, 83% of global travelers think sustainable travel is vital, with 61% saying the pandemic has made them want to travel more sustainably in the future. So, if you want to see the world and damage it as little as possible, here are five simple steps to start with.
1. Stay somewhere that cares
The want for sustainable accommodation is all well and good, but how do you even know where to start looking?
Well, you can look out for Travel Sustainable badges on booking sites and even search specific ecohotels. Ecohotels are classified as such because they have a strong commitment to limiting their impact on the environment, and are doing their bit in the fight against climate change.
However, as Charlie Cotton, founder of sustainable travel consultancy ecollective says, “There’s a lot of greenwashing in this field. If they have an ‘eco’ certification or badge verified by an external body, that’s a good start. If they use renewable energy, recycle and serve local food, then they’re on the right track.”
2. Think about your transport
In all honesty, you can’t fly sustainably. According to Cotton, there is lots of amazing research and development happening in sustainable aviation fuel, but we’re a long way from it being used in commercial flights.
“Fly less – if at all. Take the train, go on fewer, longer holidays. Choose holiday companies that are committed to reducing their carbon emissions.”
A lot of sustainable travel is just about research, so if this is something you really want to commit to, spend as much time looking into your options as possible. When you are away, consider using trains as much as you can, avoid domestic flights and use electric vehicles. The less we are putting in the ocean, the better.
3. Pack with less plastic
If you’re travelling with limited luggage and space, you might be tempted to invest in some of those tiny travel-sized toiletries and cosmetics. You’re only allowed so much in the way of liquids for a carry on, so it makes sense, right? Well, not when each tiny thing is almost entirely made of plastic, and it might not be recyclable.
Founder and CEO of regenerative cosmetics innovator Ethique, Brianne West advises: “When you travel, pack with thought. It’s easy to open up a suitcase and throw in everything you own. With a little more thought, you’ll have less to lug around, and [can help] save the planet at the same time – transporting a lighter bag will burn less fossil fuel. To do that, pack multi-use products, and cut down on liquids.”
She explains plastic products are not the way to go, “Single-use plastics are associated with mining and extraction, choking oceans and sea life, not to mention the fact it takes thousands of years to biodegrade. On the other hand, every single Ethique product is completely plastic free and, as a result, one of our shampoo bars has just 8% of the carbon footprint of the equivalent liquid product.
“The large footprint of bottled products comes primarily from the plastic packaging, 150g of carbon dioxide is released just to make one 25g plastic bottle.”
4. Cut the pre-trip shop
We all want to look lovely on holiday, with new swimwear or sandals, maybe some shorts or a sundress. But, consider investing in a few better quality, sustainable pieces when you shop – one’s you’ll wear when you get home, rather than cheaper, fast-fashion items.
5. Go when it is quieter
Overcrowding can be dangerous for local communities, wildlife and pollution. If you can, avoid peak times like August and Easter, suggests Cotton. And if you can’t, due to school holidays or diary restrictions, “visit less popular destinations, and travel off the beaten track to lesser-known places”.
You will get the chance to see more of the world, while also keeping your environmental footprint in mind.