As travelers, we all know the unstoppable urge known as “wanderlust.” The stirring desire to explore the world and get out and see more can be incredibly strong. But with the growth in environmentally aware travelers, there is an increasing awareness that your exploration must be balanced in a way that is both ethical and environmentally responsible. Responsible wanderlust is increasingly becoming part of the travel experience, enabling tourists to do their part in the global effort for sustainability.
1. Exploring the World: Responsibly
Exploring the world offers untold rewards – the unforgettable sights, memorable experiences, enriching cultural interactions, and the chance to see how people outside your own environment live and work. But travel also carries responsibility. As a traveler, there are a few steps you can take to ensure that your journeying doesn’t have a negative impact on the cultures and environments you visit.
- Research Your Destination: It’s important to stay informed and educated – take the time to find out about the local cultures and protocols to ensure you are sensitive and respectful to the people you encounter.
- Support Local Businesses: Supporting local businesses, even in small ways, by patronizing restaurants, shops, and markets, can have a dramatic impact on the lives of local people.
- Protect Natural Environments: Be thoughtful with how you interact with the environment throughout your trip, including touring sensitive areas in moderation, not contributing to the overcrowding of popular or fragile sites, and making sure to dispose of your trash respectfully.
- Practice Responsible Touring: Be aware of the types of activities you participate in, and be mindful of what is included – for instance, avoid participating in excursions or activities that exploit animals or involve the displacement of people.
By making conscientious decisions while traveling, you can have a huge impact on preserving the culture and beauty of the people and places you visit! Don’t forget, even the smallest action – such as refraining from purchasing souvenirs made of protected or endangered animal parts – can be an incredibly valuable contribution toward preserving the wonders of the world for generations to come.
Exploring the world is an inspiring and eye-opening experience – one that can be even more important, meaningful, and beautiful with the power of responsible travel.
2. Finding the Balance: Wanderlust vs. Environmental Responsibility
Traveling the world is an incredible way to explore and experience different cultures and environments. And more often, it’s done with an eco-conscious responsibilty. But when it comes to hitting the road for an extended period and studying abroad, making sure you’re practicing sustainable travel can be a challenge.
Now more than ever, there’s an important balance to be struck between living out your wanderlust and respecting the environment. Here are some of the key decisions that’ll help you find that balance:
- Planes: While air travel is sometimes the only way to get to certain places, try to offset your carbon emissions by offsetting your ticket. Look for affordable ways to minimize your environmental impact by traveling with reputable companies.
- Accommodations: Whether you opt for hotels, hostels, or home-shares, look for properties that are energy-efficient and make environmentally conscious decisions. Take advantage of natural resources—like sunlight—wherever possible, or take part in sustainability initiatives.
- Flights & Transport: If you will be driving, fly, or use public transport, research which companies offer greener options. Reduce paper waste (and save money!) by buying tickets online.
- Food & Drinks: Maybe your journey includes sampling the local cuisine or enjoying libations at a cozy pub. Whatever the case may be, support local markets, eateries & bars that prioritize sustainable practices such as reducing food waste, sourcing local ingredients, and using reusable materials.
It’s easy to time the perfect postcard shot when traveling abroad, but it’s equally important to consider the impact you may be having. With an increased awareness for eco-consciousness, the possibilities are boundless! All it takes is a little bit of planning and research.
3. Sustainability: Making the Most of Your Travels
Sustainable travel is one of the most important, yet overlooked, ways of making the most of your trips. By reducing our environmental footprint as much as possible, we can ensure our travel experiences are memorable, fulfilling, and inspiring.
An easy way to start is to be mindful of the areas you visit and the things you do. Take the time to research how your travels may be impacting the community or environment you’re in. Look into local charities and organizations that promote preservation, conservation and education. Donate to causes that you’re passionate about or that align with your travel philosophy.
- Implement responsible practices
Try to make more eco-friendly decisions wherever possible – whether it’s eating local/sustainable foods, taking public transportation, or opting for carbon-neutral activities. Make sure you avoid taking souvenirs from nature and don’t encourage activities like animal rides.
- Support local businesses
Shop for produce and products at a local market, stay in locally-owned guesthouses, and eat in small cafes instead of big chain restaurants. Buy souvenirs from independent artisans, so that you’re helping to create economic opportunities for residents, while also conserving their culture.
- Leave no trace
Be sure to keep nature clean by refraining from littering, and pick up after yourself. Wear appropriate clothing that covers your feet and legs to prevent spreading any invasive species that may harm the environment. If you’re camping, use a clean stove and avoid leaving any combustible waste behind.
4. Do Your Part: Tips for Environmentally Conscious Adventurers
When it comes to adventuring and exploring, nothing is more important than respecting the environment we enjoy. As much as we love traversing the mountains and exploring the forests, it is vital that we do our part to protect the wilderness and ensure that many more generations will have the pleasure of enjoying the outdoors. Here, we’ve rounded up some tips for adventurers who want to be conscious of their impact:
- Pack Out Your Trash: Always be sure to pick up your trash and carry it out with you. Leave no footprints behind—literally.
- Respect the Animals: Respect animals and their habitats. Don’t feed wild animals and try to stay as quiet as possible when outdoors.
- Be Fire Wise: Have a fire responsibly and use designated fire pits when possible. Don’t leave any ashes behind and make sure to always keep a bucket of water or sand near the fire.
- Leave Nature as You Found It: A great way to respect nature is to leave no trace. Don’t damage the landscape or take anything from it, and be aware of any local restrictions you need to follow.
- Camp Responsibly: When camping, be aware of the regulations and rules that need to be followed. Also, be mindful of clearing up campsites before you leave so that other adventurers can enjoy the same view as you did.
The beauty of nature and the great outdoors is something that we should cherish and protect. Doing your part when it comes to adventuring can go a long way in protecting our environment. Make sure to always be conscious of your impact, and we can all have an enjoyable time adventuring outdoors, while also protecting the environment.
The world is a big place, and with a little bit of responsible wanderlust, it can become your playground. Explore the world, keep your environmental awareness at the forefront, and share in the joy that comes with responsible travel. We can all make an impact on our planet — and on ourselves — when we experience the world in a mindful and responsible way.
