People have various reasons for choosing their travel destinations, including cost, itineraries, proximity to loved ones, and social media influence. However, sustainability has become an increasingly important factor. According to Jack Coble, vice president of design and environmental stewardship at Urban Villages, green travel is not only becoming more common but also the overwhelming preference as people recognize and address the environmental challenges that affect their lives and the economy.
No matter where you are in the world, you can find a destination that emphasizes sustainability. This could be through hyper-local dining and shopping options, accommodations and transportation with a smaller environmental footprint, or activities focused on conservation. Eloisa Lewis, founder of New Climate Culture, suggests looking for experiences that support environmental literacy and remediation. These could include mushroom foraging, native edible plant identification, farm sanctuaries, beekeeping, pottery classes, picnics with sustainable ingredients, animal rescue facility tours, native wildflower planting, natural dye workshops, and visits to regenerative wineries.
Lewis believes that green travel is about honoring the locations you visit, taking responsibility for their beauty and health, and exchanging benefits and culture. When choosing a destination, it’s important to research and avoid vendors who engage in “greenwashing” – using sustainability buzzwords without genuine commitment. Look for hotels that directly reduce their carbon emissions and make a positive impact on their surrounding ecosystems and communities. These companies often provide a more authentic experience.
To reduce your carbon footprint, consider staying closer to home and avoiding or limiting air travel. Visiting a destination during off-season dates can also help ease the burden on the local environment. Fortunately, there are excellent green travel options worldwide for nature exploration, sustainability education, or conservation support.
Costa Rica is known for its commitment to eco-tourism, with numerous environmentally-friendly accommodations and activities. Over a quarter of the country’s land area is protected as national parks, nature reserves, and wildlife refuges. Activities such as hiking, zip-lining, kayaking, and wildlife spotting allow nature lovers to enjoy the country’s lush rainforests and diverse wildlife.
San Francisco is praised for its extensive eco-friendly initiatives, including clean energy, waste management policies, and parks. The city also offers green building practices, biking, public transportation options, and locally sourced cuisine. The greater Northern California region, including Muir Woods, Wine Country, Big Sur, Lake Tahoe, and Mendocino, provides sustainable stay opportunities.
Norway’s natural beauty includes glaciers, fjords, mountains, and forests, making it ideal for eco-tourism activities like hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The country is a leader in renewable energy, generating over 90% of its electricity from hydropower and wind farms. Sustainable seafood and energy-efficient hotels are additional attractions.
New Zealand prioritizes the preservation of its natural environment, offering eco-friendly options such as whale watching, wildlife spotting, hiking, and kayaking. Educational tours and exhibits promote conservation efforts and renewable energy initiatives.
Singapore stands out as a sustainable travel destination due to its planet-friendly amenities like clean drinking water, excellent public transport, and alternatives to single-use plastics. The country showcases solar-powered gardens, recycled wastewater systems, and other green initiatives.
The Netherlands has a long-standing commitment to environmental protection, reducing pollution, and promoting cycling. Rotterdam, ranked as the top city for sustainably-minded travelers, is accessible by bike, trains, and ferries, and offers eco-friendly hotels.
Portugal offers sustainable travel experiences, particularly in the Azores, known for stunning landscapes and conservation efforts. The comorpha village in Portugal integrates eco-friendliness into every aspect of the guest experience, from sustainable decor to locally sourced ingredients.
Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands prioritize conservation due to their diverse wildlife. Sustainable tourism practices ensure minimal impact on the environment, protecting unique species like giant tortoises. The country’s rainforests, especially Mashpi Lodge, provide opportunities for family, wellness, and scientific research.
Bhutan, nestled in the Himalayas, places strict rules on tourists to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. The country has achieved “carbon negativity” and values the well-being of its citizens, with conservation as a key factor. Visitors can explore Buddhist sites, trek through the mountains, and marvel at stunning landscapes.
Canada’s vast wilderness and sustainability efforts make it a popular choice for eco-minded travelers. Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers opportunities to explore glaciers, lakes, and mountains while learning about conservation efforts. Urban destinations like Vancouver showcase a commitment to sustainable practices as well.
By choosing sustainable travel destinations and supporting local businesses that genuinely prioritize eco-friendly practices, travelers can have meaningful experiences while minimizing their impact on the environment.
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