#CONSCIOUSTRAVEL: REUSE, RECYCLE AND REPLENISH
Our carbon As we honour the planet on Earth Day on April 22, let’s take a pledge to reduce footprint and consider sustainability and social responsibility when we travel
Every time we fly on a plane, stay in a hotel or ride in a taxi, carbon emissions are being generated. But this doesn’t mean one puts a stop to travelling altogether. Instead, it offers a chance to rethink our choices and learn how to travel in a responsible way. And here are some easy and effective ways to help you do that.
OPT FOR GREENER TRAVEL ALTERNATIVES
One can reduce CO2 emissions drastically by taking a train, coach, or even a full passenger car instead of a plane, whenever possible. “Go for the option that is safer, cost-effective, and not very time-consuming,” says Bhumika Malhotra, travel blogger.
When a plane ticket is the only viable option, choose airlines that opt for eco-friendly aviation fuel. It is better to fly economy, if you want to keep your emissions to a minimum.
ECO-FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATIONS
As a tourist, explore resorts that are looking at ways to make the planet greener. “Our properties are non-smoking, with 100% recycling of waste water, zero plastic straw usage and optimal energy usage. All food waste is converted to compost, which is then used for gardening” says Kush Kapoor, CEO, Roseate Hotels and Resorts.
Some travel companies have also come up with sustainability initiatives. Delhi-based travel hostel, goSTOPS, has joined hands with Shoshin Tribe, a travel company, to bring stories of responsible travelling in India to the forefront. “We will focus on creating local jobs and promote responsible travel. Our approach is to use local ingredients and produce and support livelihoods,” says Pankaj Parwanda, co-founder and chief strategy officer, goSTOPS.
“We, as hosts, can do our part by offering Earth-conscious experiences. We have developed experiences which showcase our water world in Kerala. Our cuisine is totally focused on local produce and flavours. Local fishermen take our guests out on traditional canoe tours along the coast line,” says Joerg Drechsel, director, Relais & Châteaux.
JUDICIOUS USE OF ENERGY AND WATER
Be a responsible traveller. “Carry your water bottle instead of buying a new plastic one each time. Switch off air conditioning and lights when you step out. Be mindful of how frequently you need your linens and towels changed,” says Shweta Rajpal, a travel blogger.
Take a tote bag for shopping, avoid straws, sit and have your coffee instead of using takeaway paper cups, and carry bamboo cutlery.
PACK RIGHT
Don’t carry bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant cans. Opt for solid bars that don’t involve plastic and packaging. A bamboo toothbrush, instead of the plastic alternative, will help reduce your carbon footprint.
ALWAYS GO LOCAL
Eat at local restaurants where sustainablysourced raw materials are used. Food by local producers would reduce the transport emissions, while supporting the local community. You could also buy art pieces and souvenirs made from recycled materials.
CHOOSING THE DESTINATION
“Some places that can help you follow conscious travelling are Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala and Bhutan,” says Sidhi Kapoor, a lifestyle influencer, adding that the community-based eco-tourism at these places and locally-sourced materials provide livelihood to indigenous communities living in the area.