Living a more environmentally conscious life doesn’t have to stop at home. Take your green lifestyle on the road with you as you venture to your summer vacation destination.
[1] Research your destination before leaving home.
[2] Keep your travel as close to home as possible.
[3] Before you leave home, make sure you unplug all unnecessary power appliances. Even when they are not in use, home appliances that are left plugged in use “vampire energy” to operate things like standby modes and displays. Don’t forget the television, your computer and it’s easy to overlook things like the water heater and washer and dryer.
[4] If you’re travelling by car, try to source a hybrid option. Ensure that tires have correct air pressure so that you are ride is as fuel-efficient as possible. Taking to the air? Look for direct flights wherever possible. You can also purchase carbon offsets from a number of providers. Also, consider supporting an airline that offsets its carbon emissions. Basically, you pay a small fee that essentially purchases credits towards environmentally friendly energy programs that generate wind, water and solar power. By purchasing these credits, and supporting these programs, you are offsetting' the impact of the energy used to travel to your destination.
[5] Once you reach your destination take advantage of opportunities to walk, ride a bike or take public transport. These can provide an up-close look at your destination while reducing your impact. Naturally, compromising safety is NEVER an option. So be smart about your choices.
[6] Continue the good habits you’ve started at home. Stick to the 3 “R’s” Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Unplug appliances and chargers in the hotel room. Bring and fill up your own re-useable water bottle. Many hotels offer cold and refreshing spring water dispensers. Ask your hotel not to change your bed linens and towels every day. Most hotels already have these programmes in service. Turn the thermostat back a few degrees, the savings in energy really makes an impact.
[7] Think globally ac locally. Whenever possible just as you do at home, eat as much locally produced organically grown food. Eating local cuisine is not only fresh and delicious but reduces emissions created and energy used in the transport and production of the food we eat.
[8] Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Support responsible tour operators who support and give back to the local economy while maintaining eco-friendly practices. Consider spending a few hours or a day giving back to a local charity or volunteer tourism experience. Giving back to the people who have shared their lives and home is a great way to experience local culture and even foster lasting relationships and memories.
[9] As you get out and about in your vacation destination be sure to leave it like you found it. Don’t remove flora and fauna and protect of the natural beauty of your destination. Remember at all time that you are a guest and your visit is a privilege.
[10] Buy locally. It supports the local economy and reduces the need for imported and exported goods, major contributors to the carbon emission problem. Don’t forget to buy carefully. It’s easy to unknowingly support the trafficking and sale of endangered species or the destruction of habitats. Handicrafts make unique and meaningful souvenirs, but avoid animal skins, shells (whole, or jewelry), coral and bone or ivory (often seen carved into figurines). Amazing pictures, memories and stories are really the best way to make the most of your trip.
Most of all stay safe, have fun and make special memories.
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