In an era where the impact of tourism on the environment and local communities is under scrutiny, responsible and sustainable travel practices have become more critical than ever. Tourism has the potential to be a powerful force in alleviating poverty, offering economic opportunities, and rehabilitating the natural environment - if we make the right choices.
In this guide, we'll explore how to embrace sustainable tourism and make mindful choices that contribute positively to the places you visit.
Choose Certified Accommodations and Tour Operators:
One of the first steps towards sustainable tourism is selecting certified hotels and tour operators. Organizations like Biosphere and GreenStep provide certifications to businesses committed to environmental and social responsibility. This certification is based on the Global Tourism Sustainability Council’s Criteria, designed to be applied to destinations, tourism associations, and tour operators. Similarly, the B Corp. standard is issued to companies that meet rigorous standards of social and environmental performance. Another symbol to watch out for is the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge, a global movement by organizations to make tourism a positive force for good. By opting for certified establishments, you ensure that your accommodation and activities align with sustainable practices.
However, not all operators can afford to be certified, below we will explore other ways to make sustainable selections.
Stay at Locally Owned Establishments:
Supporting locally owned hotels and owner-operated establishments is a direct way to contribute to the local economy. These businesses often also have a vested interest in preserving the cultural and environmental integrity of their surroundings. Choose boutique hotels, guesthouses, or eco-lodges owned by individuals or local families to enhance your travel experience and make connections with locals who know the region.
Immerse Yourself in Local Arts and Culture:
Engaging with local arts and culture not only enriches your travel experience, but also supports the preservation of heritage. Attend local events, visit museums, and explore traditional art forms. Take the opportunity to purchase directly from local artists, contributing directly to their livelihoods. This ensures that the economic benefits of tourism reach those who need it most. Conversely, outlet malls and shopping experiences that offer the same international brands found at your local mall do not contribute towards sustainable tourism.
Invest in Local Experiences:
To truly immerse yourself in the culture of a destination, invest in regenerative local experiences. Whether it's a guided tour by a knowledgeable local or a cooking class to learn regional cuisine, these activities provide meaningful interactions and insights. Regenerative experiences are those which benefit the local economy, environment and, or culture. Spending money on these experiences channels funds directly into the local community, fostering sustainable tourism practices. And after all, experiences are what you will remember and treasurer the most from our travels!
Luxury Experiences and Tours:
Many well-established tour operators contribute a significant amount of funds into programs aimed at improving the areas in which they operate. This information is often outlined in their Mission, Vision and Purpose Statements, or in their Sustainability Reports. For instance, The Travel Corporation has over 20 brands under which it offers different tours throughout the world. Their Make Travel Matter Experiences are created specifically to create sustainable and regenerative tourism. Another international operator dedicated to ecotourism is Singita. Their programs have created thousands of jobs and restored ecosystems and species throughout Africa. A responsible tour operator will readily provide details about its programming.
Lodging and Dining:
Resort chains and international restaurant chains often have a larger ecological footprint and profits generated from these operations are typically funnelled abroad, to the parent corporation. However, some international hotel chains do invest in local conservation or cultural projects. For example, the Marriott in Cayman Islands has developed an artificial reef for habitat protection. Hotels may also be LEED or ISO 14001 certified, meaning that they have implemented rigorous environmental management systems to mitigate their environmental impacts. Make your travels sustainable by selecting a hotel that supports local communities and has sustainable energy practices. The same factors apply to international restaurant chains. Opt to dine at independent, locally-owned restaurants. This not only supports local businesses but also allows you to savor authentic flavors and immerse yourself in the local culinary scene.
Nature Experiences:
Not all experiences with wildlife and nature result in positive outcomes. In recent years, many zoo operators have come under fire for the deplorable conditions their animals suffer. For example, elephant tourism in Thailand is a mash-up of legitimate conservation sanctuaries and road-side zoos. A sustainable wildlife experience does not permit interaction with wild animals. Visitors should be able to observe animals in their natural habitats, from a safe distance. Those traveling through wild habitats should follow the ‘Leave No Trace’ principle and refrain from damaging or collecting anything from the environment.
Conclusion
As a responsible traveler, your choices can shape the future of tourism, influencing both the economics and environment of your host destination. Opting for certified accommodations, supporting local businesses, engaging with culture, and avoiding exploitative businesses are pivotal steps in contributing to sustainable tourism. Embrace the opportunity to explore the world responsibly, leaving a positive impact on the places you visit.
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