Sustainable tourism is a type of tourism based on the exploitation and rational use of natural resources to limit negative impacts on human living environment. Experiencing this form of tourism, tourists not only have the opportunity to visit beautiful and attractive places but also contribute greatly to environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.
Below are some easy-to-follow sustainable travel tips to help travelers have a fulfilling trip while also helping to protect the environment where they stay.
1. Fly direct, unless going long distance
Airplanes are always the first choice for long trips but consume a lot of energy, fuel and are not environmentally friendly. Airplanes use more fuel for takeoff, landing and moving to the airport terminal. So try to find direct flights to minimize emissions during the trip. Not only that, direct flights also help you save a lot of energy to prepare for the journey to explore new lands.
On the other hand, for long flights, the heavier the aircraft, the less efficient it is to fly and the more fuel it uses. “For long flights, stopping mid-flight to refuel after a certain distance is more fuel-efficient,” says Martin Nolan, travel expert at Skyscanner.
2. Book economy class tickets
In addition to saving money, choosing economy class is better for the environment. Budget travelers and those flying on low-cost airlines leave a smaller carbon footprint due to the reduced weight on the plane.
“Premium class seats take up more space on the plane and are much heavier, which reduces the number of people that can fly on the same flight and increases the plane's fuel consumption,” says Martin Nolan.
3. Compact packaging
By carefully considering the types of items and packing light, travelers can minimize their impact on the environment. Reducing the weight of luggage will help vehicles consume fuel more slowly.
If you can pack lighter, you’ll also save on baggage fees. By only taking essentials for the trip and picking up toiletries at your destination, you’ll allow the plane to fly lighter, making the journey more sustainable.
According to Etihad Airways, carrying 5kg less luggage can reduce your carbon footprint by 5%, so pack your essentials before your trip.
4. Draw the window curtains
A super simple tip to make your flight safer is to close your window shades. When flying, lowering your window shades can help reduce emissions by reducing the energy needed to maintain cabin temperature.
The less energy needed to power an air conditioning system, the less greenhouse gases are released into the atmosphere, Nolan explains.
5. Leave no ecological footprint
The total ecological area required to produce the resources consumed by an average citizen of a given human community, as well as necessary to absorb the waste it produces.
Offsetting carbon emissions is often seen as a form of “greenwashing.” While it’s not a foolproof solution to climate change, it’s a positive move for travelers looking to offset their personal carbon footprint.
Some airlines offer this service directly to passengers, but you can do your own research to make the best decision. “If you don’t agree with the options or prices offered by the airline or supplier, you can also consider taking out your own budget and making an independent donation to a conservation charity of your choice,” says Nolan.
Travellers can use the ICAO emissions calculator to help estimate carbon emissions for upcoming flights, and some search engines, including Skyscanner, allow people to search for trips that emit less carbon dioxide than the average for their chosen route.
