How to Practice Sustainable Tourism

Millions of people travel every year to explore the different cultures, food, and scenery in countries apart from their own. However, the environmental impact of tourism has become a pressing problem due to air pollution, waste, and carbon footprint, contributing significantly to climate change. 

Fortunately, the World Travel & Tourism Council and Trip.com, together with Deloitte, report a 69% increase in travelers that actively seek sustainable travel options. As a tourist, here’s how you can embrace a more sustainable approach while enjoying your vacations. This will help preserve the environment for future generations. 

More hotels and resorts are now adopting sustainable practices such as using renewable energy sources, reducing water usage and waste, and offering eco-friendly products and complements to their guests. Other spas and hotels are taking it up a notch by using eco-friendly materials such as bamboo in their buildings. 

These accommodations do their part in: 

• Lowering the environmental impact by using traditional building materials

• Reducing carbon footprint, and 

• Contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

When researching accommodation options for your trip, look for eco-certifications such as Green Globe or LEED. Green Globe is the original standard that all sustainable tourism eco-labels are based on. It has been taken up by several businesses that support travel and tourism. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), on the other hand, is a globally recognized green building certification of sustainability achievement. 

If your chosen accommodation has these certifications, they are implementing sustainability practices. You will see this in their buildings, plumbing systems, or as soon as you enter their properties. They may be providing biodegradable or reusable amenities that can help reduce waste.

Consider the local community whenever you go on vacation. For souvenirs, consider buying locally made products, using local services, and learning about the culture. Don’t purchase products made from endangered species or non-sustainable materials. In addition, travelers can support local conservation efforts by joining community-based initiatives like beach cleanups and tree-planting activities. 

What’s more, you can experience the destination more authentically by participating in local activities such as food tours and cultural experiences. 

This will boost their tourism even more, attracting more visitors, and giving them financial support for economic growth. These practices help protect the environment and contribute to the economic development of the local community. Not only will this make your vacation more meaningful, but it will also give back to the community that you visited.

Carbon emissions from air travel are one of the biggest contributors to climate change. Travelers can reduce their carbon footprint by taking alternative transportation like trains or buses. You can reduce your carbon footprint even more by traveling to destinations closer to home. 

Also, instead of choosing travel activities that involve taking a bus or a car, you can enjoy hiking or cycling to tourist spots. Many destinations offer bike rentals or public transportation options to reduce your carbon footprint. You will reduce the use of fuel during your travels and enjoy the sceneries even more.

The future seems bright for sustainable tourism. February 17 is now celebrated as Global Tourism Resilience Day in an effort to future-proof the sustainability of tourism. As of now, more than 90 countries are supporting this initiative. 

At a time when people travel left and right, sustainable tourism is essential for the preservation of the environment and the protection of local communities. By staying in eco-friendly accommodations, supporting local communities, and reducing our carbon footprint, we can contribute to sustainable tourism practices. As travelers, we have a responsibility to protect the environment and ensure that we leave a positive impact on the communities we visit. Let us all embrace sustainable tourism practices and create a better future for our planet.

Be a part of the first and only wellness tourism event in Japan. International Wellness Tourism EXPO is a gathering of local and international businesses in the wellness tourism sector. Go where brands and industry professionals gather to promote various solutions for physical, mental, and spiritual health, hygiene, and wellbeing. Don’t miss this three-day event on May 10–12, 2023, at Tokyo Big Sight, Japan.