In this modern-day and age, travelling is easier than ever. However, even with travel being so accessible, many people are still looking to help the environment with ethical eco travelling.
1) Packing lighter?
This one is a tricky question because whilst lighter planes burn less fuel, airlines will typically fill the aircraft to weight capacity. In addition, most airlines will enter into additional freight contracts with postal services or international shipping companies such as Hermes and USPS. This means that the weight of the typical traveller and their luggage will probably not affect how much fuel is actually used for the flight.
That doesn’t mean packing a lighter will not be a benefit to yourself. Often when travelling most people tend to over pack. Try to aim for packing what you know you’re going to use, and take more multifunctional and interchangeable outfits rather than individual ones.
2) Consider the CO2 Emissions.
Google flights offer a handy CO2 calculator that predicts how many emissions are produced per person. According to Google themselves, “Emissions are calculated for 1 passenger in the selected seating class” they state that “Google uses the European Environmental Agency (EEA) emission estimates with the most up-to-date algorithmic model from 2019” source.
Suppose you’re giving eco travelling a try, even when booking your flights on comparison sights and flight finders for the best price. In that case, you can double-check flight emissions by searching the flight details in the “google flights” search. For example, suppose you are conscious of flying at lower emissions per person. In that case, this is the best way to go, but if you prefer to book with a specific airline because overall, they are more ethical, sustainable and/or economical, check out this list of the most sustainable UK airlines and top sustainable airlines worldwide.
3) Learn the native language.
This might seem obvious to some, but it is a common complaint of many locals of popular tourist destinations that tourists don’t bother making an effort. Try to learn some basic and common phrases you might need to know, including directions! Just because they understand you need something or want to go somewhere doesn’t mean you will understand the answers they give.
If you struggle to learn the language, whether you are deaf or simply struggle with languages, try investing in a handy phrase book or translator. Even google translate might become your best friend. Regardless so long as you try and make an effort, instead of relying on everyone else to understand your native language (yes, I’m looking at you, fellow English speakers), it’s always appreciated! Often times you’ll get better responses simply for trying!
4) Understand the Area- Minimise your Carbon Footprint.
Another silly-sounding suggestion, but it’s easy to forget to check a map when you’re unfamiliar with one and simply jump an uber or taxi. Whether in Rome, Barcelona or Sydney, getting familiar with a map is the top trip advice. Not only will it reduce your CO2 footprint, but it will also save you some pennies!
Any good eco traveller knows that most major cities and popular tourist destinations have public transport available in all popular and central locations. For example, Sydney has their Transport NSW system, supported by the Opal pay system. It allows you to travel around the city and travel all around NSW so long as you have credit on your card. In Sydney, Opal network caps the amount you have to pay and is never more than $16.30 a day, $50 a week or $8.15 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. This allows you to travel as much as you like on their metro, train, bus, ferry and light rail services, which applies to any contactless payments source.
As well as making use of the cheaper public transport, you may find that something you want to visit is faster to get to on foot! A lot of tourist locations are bound by complicated one-way systems that will rack up Uber and Taxi fares. If you are driving a rental car, you may struggle to find available parking!
5) Mind your rubbish!
Whether travelling all-inclusive, self-catering or something in between, you will generate rubbish! So make a note of the recycling options wherever you are staying and try to abide by them. On top of keeping to the local recycling and rubbish restrictions, try to reduce your food waste as well. When self-catering, plan your meals in advance, and when buying in your produce, don’t over-face yourself!
Another thing to keep a watch on is your rubbish on days out! Whether you’ve gone for a hike up a local mountain, a walk along the beachfront, or a swim in a local beauty spot, remember to take everything you brought or bought with you. Don’t leave your buckets and spades for other people to find and use, as they are more likely to be swept away and pollute the ocean.
Hopefully, these tips have helped you in your journey to become an eco traveller. There are plenty of environmentally friendly ways to travel. As long as you have good intentions, it’s not too hard to find ways to be eco-conscious, get new experiences, and make some great memories!