The Art of Low-impact Travelling

Although driven by various reasons, our species began travelling the planet many thousands of years ago. We started travelling in search of food and resources, and later to establish trade networks. Today, however, most of us travel for leisure. What was once unreachable for many and tedious for the few who could afford it has changed dramatically in recent decades due to the expansion of domestic aviation and international agreements. 

We have never travelled as much, nor has it ever been as easy. But this brings consequences for our planet. It’s estimated that tourism and travel accounts for roughly 9% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

It's unfair to suggest that everyone should stop travelling to save the Earth. Nevertheless, there are several ways to minimise our environmental impact while we travel.

1. Try direct flights. If you cannot avoid flying, you can minimise the number of flights you take to your destination. Reducing flights decreases the number of take-offs and landings, which are the primary contributors to emissions.
   

2. Use public transportation. We should always consider this option before flying. But, again, if it is not possible, we can consider it once we arrive at our destination. Or better yet, we can explore on foot or by bike. This not only reduces our environmental impact but also allows you to connect more deeply with the places you visit.
   

3. Reusable items kit. Create a kit of reusable items that you can carry with you wherever you go. Include a reusable water bottle, a cup, cutlery, a straw, beeswax wrap, and cloth napkins. Not only is airport food often expensive, but having this kit can also help you significantly reduce your use of single-use items.
   

4. Travel light. It may seem insignificant, but the heavier our suitcases, the more fuel we need to transport them, whatever the means of transport. Plus, it can save us a lot of time and prevent us from additional fees for excessive weight. 
   

5. Choose eco-friendly accommodations. We often think that travelling is just about flying and that this is where most of the impact lies. But, in fact, accommodation is also responsible for large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Do some research and choose hotels with real environmental concerns and proven environmentally friendly measures. 
   

6. Adjust behaviour at accommodations. We often find ourselves putting every type of food on our plate at breakfast due to the abundance of options, even though we most likely are not going to consume it all. Sometimes, we leave lights on or keep the air conditioning running in our room. We use the lifts when unnecessary and we take those long long showers…However, being aware of our behaviours in the accommodations may help us prevent food waste and water or energy consumption.
   

7. Reuse towels and bedsheets. Another way to reduce your impact when travelling is to support hotels in reducing the consumption of water and energy needed for laundry. Follow the instructions of the accommodation or request at the reception that you want to prolong the use of your towels and bedsheets instead of having them replaced every day. And remember, in many places we travel to, water is a very scarce resource.
   

8. Eat sustainably. Apart from avoiding single-use containers, we can reduce meat consumption and our visits to fast food brands. Instead, we can opt for local restaurants that use seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.   

The suggestions we provide are not impossible to fulfil; they may just be uncomfortable at first. However, by being more conscious while travelling and adopting small changes, we can significantly reduce our environmental impact.