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Eco-Friendly Travel: Tips for a Sustainable Summer

02 July 2024, 7:36 GMT
By BE WTR


In a world increasingly aware of environmental impacts, eco-friendly travel is a necessity. By making mindful choices, travelers can explore the globe without significantly increasing their carbon footprints. Here are some practical tips to help you travel sustainably this summer.

Choose Sustainable Transportation

Transportation accounts for approximately 16% of global greenhouse gas emissions (IEA, 2020). Opt for trains or buses instead of planes, especially for short distances, as trains produce up to 90% less CO2 per passenger kilometre compared to airplanes (UIC, 2020). If flying is unavoidable, book direct flights to save on fuel consumption and look for airlines that invest in carbon offset programs. Consider carpooling or using electric vehicles for road trips to further reduce emissions.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Opt for accommodations prioritising sustainability and environmental stewardship, such as eco-lodges or hotels certified by programs like LEED or Green Globe. These establishments utilize alternative energy sources and implement water-saving practices. By choosing these eco-friendly options, you support businesses dedicated to sustainability and those that actively engage with and benefit local communities.

For instance, we are proud to serve BE WTR in eco-lodges and sustainable premium hotels that embrace eco-consciousness as a core aspect of their operations, such as Bristol Paris, Domaine Monte Verdi, Flayosc in France or Bank Hotel, Berns Stockholm in Sweden or the White Pod, Monthey in Switzerland.

Pack Smart and Light

Packing light reduces the fuel consumption of your transportation, as transport emissions increase by about 1-2% for every extra 10 kg of luggage (IATA, 2020). Bring reusable items like cloth bags, bamboo cutlery, and a stainless-steel or glass water bottle to minimize single-use plastics. Reducing waste helps lower the 3.5% of global emissions attributed to waste management (World Bank, 2021).

Use Reusable and Refillable Water Bottles

Travelers contribute significantly to plastic pollution. Using a refillable water bottle can prevent approximately 150 plastic bottles from entering landfills each year per person (Earth Day Network, 2020). This helps reduce the 3.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production and disposal (CIEL, 2021). Brands like BE WTR offer eco-friendly water alternatives to single-use plastic bottles to hotels and travelers.

Support Local, Sustainable Food Options

Agriculture and food production account for about 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions (FAO, 2020). Visit local farmers’ markets and restaurants that offer sustainable, organic products. Buying local can reduce food miles by up to 90%, significantly reducing transportation emissions (Local Harvest, 2021).

Be Aware of Your Water Usage

Water treatment and distribution account for approximately 3% of global energy use and related emissions (IEA, 2021). Simple actions like taking shorter showers, reusing hotel towels, and turning off the tap while brushing your teeth can make a big difference. Use eco-friendly toiletries to minimize water pollution. Water is our most precious resource, so we must protect it.

Embracing sustainable travel practices—such as choosing eco-friendly lodging, packing reusable items, and conserving water—contributes to the health of our planet. Every small action counts. By incorporating these eco-friendly travel tips, you reduce your environmental impact and inspire others to do the same. Happy sustainable travels!

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