Sustainable Travel: Tips from the Experts
What do the words eco travel, sustainable travel, responsible travel, and ecotourism really mean? How do we travel more sustainably?
Budget Direct have compiled a list of tips to help travellers become more responsible and eco friendly, with input provided by experts in the Australian sustainable travel industry, including Our Planet Travel, Ecotourism Australia, World Expeditions, and BIG4 Atherton Woodlands Touirst Park, Onya, Thala Beach Nature Reserve, QORF, Eclipse Travel, and The Rescope Project.
Why is sustainable travel important?
Donna Lawrence – Responsible Travel Manager, World Expeditions
“With the tourism industry growing exponentially each year, and the far-reaching corners of the world becoming more and more accessible each year, sustainable travel has never been so important. When each individual traveller conserves, protects and considers the environment, cultures and the vulnerable, they are fulfilling their role as a citizen of a world. By harnessing the collective good-will and efforts of all travellers will make the world a better place.”
Lina Cronin – Communications & Audit Manager, Ecotourism Australia
“Travel has so much potential to create better places for people to live in and better places for people to visit. We need to look after our environment, cultures and communities if we want these to still be around for future generations to enjoy. Plus – it feels good to do things that you know are having a positive impact!”
Tips for eco friendly travel
Budget Direct asked the eco travel experts for their tips. Below are some of their key tips to get you started.
Click here to read the full article.
Patrice Fletcher – Owner, BIG4 Atherton Woodlands Tourist Park
- Buy locally
- Use energy saving appliances
- Reduce waste and litter
- Recycle or use products which are environmentally friendly
- When filling the car with fuel, consider options which are kinder to the environment
- If using walking tracks, stay on the path and remember to take all rubbish
Melanie Grevis-James – Owner, Our Planet Travel 
- Research your travel options and check their websites – do they mention sustainable or responsible tourism? Does the company clearly support the local community? Do they mention how they protect the environment?
- Eat local – from a locally-owned business
- Don’t buy plastic bottled water – take your own reusable bottle and use water purifiers if need be
- Use/take eco-friendly soap and shampoo & personal products
- Walk or cycle wherever possible to explore the destination; or use public transport
- Purchase locally-made souvenirs direct from the producer
- Don’t use or accept plastic bags or straws
- Rent a hybrid or electric vehicle if hiring a car
- Remember to “take only photographs and leave only footprints”
- Purchase carbon offsets for your travel, including your flights
- Take short showers rather than baths
- Turn off all lights, TV, and air conditioning when you leave your room
- Stick to the path – don’t impact the environment
- Respect wildlife – keep your distance, don’t disturb them & don’t feed them
- Don’t undertake activities that involve incorrect treatment of wildlife eg. tiger/lion petting or riding elephants
- Respect local customs and traditions – read up and educate yourself about your destination before you arrive
- Don’t buy items made from endangered plants/wildlife
For further ideas and eco travel options please visit Our Planet Travel’s blog.
And click here to read the full Budget Direct article.
Photo credits: images courtesy of Budget Direct
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