In recent years, tourism has changed dizzyingly and has gained importance at a global level, bringing about a change in economic development and being, in some places, essential for the development of their society. Airlines offer cheap flights and more and more people have signed up to travel not only for the holiday period but also for weekend getaways.
Everyone wants to travel, but sometimes we are not aware of the footprint tourism leaves on the environment. Responsible tourism is a way to reduce, or even avoid, the footprint that human beings leave in the place where they travel. Proposals aimed at addressing the negative impacts of tourism such as damage to ecosystems, land, animals, local societies, etc.
9 WAYS OF RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
1. Inform yourself about the destination
The place where you decide to travel has its own history, culture and values. Before traveling, it is recommended to get information about the destination to know how it would be appropriate to behave and how to enjoy the place, without prejudice and with respect. What the natural environment is like and how to respect it during the trip.
2. Responsible consumption of resources
One of the reactions that travel provokes during the days we spend sightseeing is that it seems that anything goes. We are not at home and we forget to use natural resources, such as water, electricity or gas, in a responsible way. It is essential to consume only what is needed.
3. Consume locally
When we travel, we consume. From the t-shirts we buy as souvenirs to the food we eat. It is advisable to buy souvenirs in handicrafts stores, eat in restaurants where the locals go and where they usually serve local cuisine. Consume local, support local artistic and cultural traditions and local businesses.
4. Reduce waste
As we said in the previous point, even when we are sightseeing, everything counts. Be vigilant with our own garbage and dispose of it in places suitable for this purpose. Inform ourselves of the hours of waste collection, because in each place they have a different system and adapt to it. It is advisable to bring reusable containers to generate less waste.
5. Choose an ethical tour agency
Before making a reservation, we recommend that you inquire about the tours we choose for our trip. Many travel agencies organize travel itineraries that support local development and ensure that the money you are spending on organizing your trip benefits the local community.
6. Do not buy souvenirs of animal origin
At present, despite being prosecuted, the business of trafficking in animals or elements of animal origin still exists. An example would be hawksbill turtles, which continue to be hunted to use their shells to sell to tourists. And, like this, there are many examples of flora and fauna being used as raw materials for souvenirs that seriously harm the environment.
7. Use of eco-friendly sun creams
The sun creams that we usually find in stores pollute the seas. Its use on vacations is very high, creating an oily film that ends up floating in the sea. These products produce hydrogen peroxide which has toxic effects on marine fauna and flora. Fortunately, today we can find environmentally friendly sun creams that are a solution to this problem.
8. Public transportation
When we go sightseeing there are many ways to visit the place. Walking is a way to discover our destination and enjoy the experience, but it is natural that there comes a time when we want to give our feet a break. Choose public or non-motorized transportation to contribute to the care of the environment.
9. Respect for animals
Animals are often a tourist attraction. It is common in many places to propose activities involving the spectacle or proximity of domesticated wild animals. These animals are usually not only not in their natural environment but have been exploited for this purpose, preventing them from following their natural cycle, breaking their migratory movements, etc. If we do not want to contribute to these acts, it is advisable not to consume them. Look for options to enjoy nature without having to alter or modify it.