While tourism is wonderful, and it can help to boost economies and improve infrastructures, there are also major improvements that need to be implemented in order to ensure it is wonderful for our planet too.
One of the main effects of tourism on the environment is pollution - from air travel, waste generation and littering in green areas. All of these things happen every day and yet they are overlooked and forgotten about. Air travel also increases your carbon footprint which contributes to climate change, and in turn impacts weather patterns and natural ecosystems. Large groups of people, as we know, tend to litter massively. The blame can't be put on one person, everyone is responsible. I know it's easy to get caught up in the holiday fun but contributing to pollution heightens the risk that your destination may not be there much longer. Bins are never that far away and it takes no time out of your itineraries to practise sustainability a little more consciously.
Another big impact is habitat destruction. As long as people continue to find nice places to visit, the development of hotels, resorts and infrastructure will continue to damage ecosystems. Increased human activity will threaten flora and fauna; activities like hiking, swimming and wildlife viewing can cause harm to sensitive habitats. As humans, we have to think more and accept that an hour of fun for us can contribute to the destruction of these places. An example is the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. Access to the islands as well as the activities there are strictly regulated with timed entry tickets to manage crowds. Some of the site is also closed off or requires guided tours to minimise human impact and protect the unique wildlife and ecosystems. So when you see restrictions and signs as part of your trip, wherever you are, don’t just ignore them, they are there for a reason.
Finally, tourism can lead to the overuse of natural resources such as water and energy. Popular destinations often experience higher demand and strain local supplies. Doing a little bit of research about other places is well worth it to prevent mass tourism and explore new, less popular places. They are just as beautiful, quieter and less affected by human presence, what’s not to love!
All of these effects might seem bad (and they are!), but luckily for us, there are ways to be more mindful and sustainable when travelling. Here are some tips to travel more environmentally friendly:
- Select eco-friendly accommodations: choose places that have sustainable practises, such as energy conservation and water-saving measures.
- Walk or bike: when at your destination, consider walking or biking to minimise carbon emissions.
- Respect nature: stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing nature. Also using eco-certified tours that prioritise ethical wildlife interactions.
- Support local communities: purchase from small, local businesses and restaurants to support the economy without contributing to mass tourism.
- Pack lightly: reducing luggage weight can lower fuel consumption during travel.
By incorporating these tips into your own travel routines, you can help to minimise the negative impact that tourism has on the environment, while also enjoying new experiences. If everyone works together, we have a shot at making sustainable practices a normality and not something that is simply ignored.
