Numerous other economic sectors and people in host communities use the same environments as the tourism sector. The future of tourism destinations is currently a concern for all these stakeholders.
To combat the dynamic impacts of tourism on destinations, new tools and strategies are needed. They should take into account the sensitivities of all users to implement initiatives for change.
If you plan to take a trip to one of the world’s most iconic destinations, you are not alone. Tourism is a major global economy. But it cannot thrive without nature and culture.
Therefore, opt for Sustainable Tourism Planning to strike a balance between usage and limits. You must make sure your future travel plans don’t harm our planet.
Why Now?
The global travel and tourist sector came to a halt due to the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic outbreak. Numerous people canceled vacation plans as countries around the globe made their borders inaccessible, grounded transport services, and enforced rigid entry regulations in an attempt to curb the spreading of the virus.
Currently, these limitations are beginning to loosen. This might be due to the advent of vaccine programs coupled with dropping case numbers in various countries. It now appears that regular regional and global travel will resume soon.
Perhaps, we can put this period of imposed pause into good use. We can use it as a time for reflection. Now is an excellent time to evaluate what type of traveler you want to be. As you begin to plan a future vacation cautiously, take into account the influence your vacation plans have on other people and the environment.
Here are five tactics you can adopt to travel sustainably as we honor the recent Earth Day’s slogan to restore our earth.
What You Can Do
1. Pick a sustainable destination
Some countries are signing up to become sustainable tourist destinations. Thus, hire the services of a travel agency that promotes sustainability. Pick spots that have policies around:
- Energy sources
- Waste and emissions management
- Water use
- Local hiring
And reserve to stay at eco-conscious hotels and resorts. There are numerous tools to help you find suitable accommodation.
2. Consider the method of travel.
Opt for foot safaris, biking, or walking tours to reduce the local carbon footprint. Book with airlines that practice zero net carbon emissions in support of sustainable aviation.
And take advantage of alternative means of transportation with minimum carbon count. Carpool with friends instead of everyone hiring a different car and ask for sails in place of an engine-powered boat.
3. Opt for eco-friendly travel bags
Charity begins at home. Therefore, pick suitcases and bags manufactured with eco-friendly material such as the Magnum Eco made from recycled plastic. Also, consider what you carry. For instance, take a bamboo toothbrush instead of an electric or plastic version.
4. Practice traveler social responsibility
Tourists are expected to respect the culture and people they encounter during their travels. Traveler social responsibility encourages them to be more conscious of social and cultural issues because their visit impacts the destination and its people.
Final Thought
All stakeholders, including government, industry, tourists, local communities, and indigenous peoples, factor in sustainable development’s environmental, social, and economic elements. Sustainable tourism planning is not only good for the environment but also local communities and cultures.
