World travelers love planet Earth. Why else would we spend such time and energy experiencing its wonders? This is why ecotourism is gaining hold. In our modern world, we’re moving around at an unprecedented rate and it’s a really exciting time to be exploring other cultures. But, of course, the tourism industry has its pitfalls. Ecotourism is the attempt to balance our wanderlust with concerns for social and environmental sustainability. It’s important to remember that tourism itself can often be a highly consumeristic activity. Try to counteract that by being a responsible tourist. Being an ethical traveler involves some thought, planning and a desire to tread lightly.
1. Flying may be one of the worst things we can do for the environment. It’s a sad truth. The carbon footprint we leave by taking to the skies is much bigger than when we take a bus or, better yet, a train. Try to avoid short-haul flights when a train will do and save long-distance flights for stays that are of a longer duration. For quick vacation weekends, try destinations that aren’t far from home.
2. Make carbon offsetting part of your travel budget. Carbon offset credits support tree-planting and renewable energy sources.
3. When traveling in the developing world, where foreigners are invariably rich by local standards, children may rush up to you to take your hand and follow you around. Yes, it can become an impromptu mini-parade of children and yes, it is unquestionably cute. However, it’s best to resist when they ask for handouts of candies and pens. They don’t need candy – they need education and healthcare. Instead, give money, food or material items to a parent or village elder. They will know how to best use your gift and you won’t have to feel the guilt of knowing that you’ve perpetuated a culture of begging that children participate in because they don’t know better or because they are being exploited for their cute factor.
4. Do your research. Not every resort claiming to be an ecotourism location will actually live up to the hype. Call ahead and ask some informed questions before you make your pick.
5. Instead of visiting your standard all-inclusive for a winter getaway, what about choosing a co-op for its emphasis on conservation and the local community? Whether it’s Forest Lodge in northern Saskatchewan or Teriya Bugu in Mali, it’s all about alternative energy sources and efficient waste management. Also, organic food. Delicious at mealtime!
6. Use your vacation to put in your volunteer hours. Build a well, build a school, teach English, put your engineering skills to use. There are many organizations who strive to connect your brain and muscle power to a project for a community that needs it. And the best thing about volunteering is that in the end, it will be you, the tourist, who gets the most out of it.