When planning a trip, consider the environmental aspect.
AT A GLANCE
Take only memories, leave only footprints. — Chief Seattle
Summer season is just around the corner! Most of you have likely started mapping out all your dream destinations for the year. But before you book those flight tickets, consider thinking about the environmental aspect first. When planning your trip, it’s best to opt for locations that follow sustainable practices. Here are some of the reasons sustainable tourism can benefit both the traveler and the destination.
A deeper understanding of the culture
For travelers to understand the beauty of a destination, it’s best to immerse themselves in the community’s local cultures. By seeking out authentic cultural experiences, travelers will find a better appreciation of the area. Visit areas locals frequent and try dishes the destination is known for. Perhaps one of the best ways to experience this is through visiting tourist attractions handled by indigenous people. After all, indigenous folk act as the protectors of our ancient rituals, keeping traditions alive while caring for the environment around them. We can also show our support by purchasing from local artisans rather than buying from tourist trap establishments.
Preserving the natural beauty
When traveling, always consider if the destination has sustainable practices in place to ensure the natural beauty of the place is kept un-
touched. For instance, when island hopping, do the boats you ride have containers for trash to ensure no waste is left on the islands? Think
about the impact you have in the areas you visit. When going on a hike, always bring containers to take your trash with you. For beach lovers, think twice about collecting any sea shells you see in the sand. By taking these home, you are also taking away potential homes for crustaceans residing on the beach. Opt for activities that encourage wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and minimized carbon emissions.
Boosting the quality of life for residents
Sometimes tourism can act as a double-edged sword. It can promote the beauty of the area, bringing in more crowds to help boost the economy and improve the quality of life for locals. At the same time, it brings the lurking danger of over-tourism. One need only look at the effects over-tourism had on Boracay that led to its sudden shutdown back in 2018. Conditions on the island worsened to the point that an algae bloom, which researchers claim is a sign of pollution and water deterioration, took over the island’s once pristine waters. To avoid over-tourism is simple, take the road less traveled by. Rather than visiting the usual destination hot spot, seek out adventure by going to lesser-known areas that are welcoming visitors. Who knows, you might even find the next Siargao or El Nido just waiting to be discovered!
