Why Every Traveler Cares About Sustainability – They Just Might Not Know It Yet
My grandpa’s first trip to the Florida Keys was in the 1940s, just after they built the Overseas Highway connecting the major islands. He grew up snorkeling and scuba diving the pristine reefs that covered every underwater corner surrounding the islands. Over the years, he took his family on weeks long summer trips to enjoy these natural habitats, and a love for the reefs was passed down to my mom and then to me.
Fast forward through a population boom, colossal resort constructions, the mass distribution of plastics and the pollution that comes with it, overfishing, and general irresponsible tourism practices- coral reefs now cover 90% less area in the Keys than they did in the 40s. The exploration of incredible underwater scenery my grandfather told me story after story about is something neither I, nor my children will get to experience.
This pattern of degradation is by no means exclusive to the Florida Keys. Venice, Cozumel, and the Phi Phi Islands are just a few of the many examples of places facing destruction from unsustainable tourism practices. While tourism isn’t the only factor causing these places to decline (climate change definitely has a huge impact) too many people acting irresponsibly in an area is a sure-fire way to slowly destroy local communities and environments.
Sustainable travel is travel that enriches the traveler while also contributing to the betterment of the communities, cultures, and ecosystems that they travel to. It’s preserving a place so that your grandchildren will be able to enjoy it.
We can travel more sustainably by making conscious decisions about where we stay and how we interact with locals. Choosing companies that are actively changing how they do business. Foregoing the cheap trinkets in favor of goods that are responsibly sourced. Eating at restaurants who care about the quality of food they serve and where it comes from. Learning more about our impact in the local communities we’re visiting.
The incredible experiences you have while you travel should be passed down to your grandchildren, and not just through stories. They should be able to experience and make their own memories in the destinations we are able to enjoy today.
Sustainable travel tips:
Consider visiting an off-the-beaten-path destination or a well-known destination in the off season. You’ll get a more authentic experience of the country you’re visiting, see some hidden gems, and you won’t be contributing to the mass tourism that can destroy a destination.
Do a little bit of research on your accommodation before you book. Most hotels and resorts will have an excerpt on their website of their sustainability initiatives. If all they say is that they align themselves with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, chances are they don’t have any real initiatives. But if they give detailed examples of what they’re doing for the planet, you’ll know exactly what actions your money is supporting.
During your stay, visit and patronize local businesses. It can be easy and more comfortable to drift towards name recognition, but spending money locally means it is more likely to stay local and benefit the surrounding communities.
Say no to single-use plastics and other common sources of pollution; bringing a reusable water bottle and tote will help you in this endeavor. Especially if you’re visiting a seaside destination- turn down the straws, takeaway containers, and plasticware.
Use a travel advisor who knows and cares about sustainable and responsible tourism! They can enhance your trip in ways that you never imagined, while still protecting the destination for your great grandchildren to experience and enjoy one day.
If you have any questions, comments, or want to learn how to make your travels more earth-friendly, click the link below to reach out to our Sustainable Travel Specialist – Jennifer Allison. She would love to help you add any amount of sustainability into your travel plans!