With carbon emissions, global warming, and much more being affected by the travel and tourism industry every day, it’s tough for us to justify or understand the impact we have when we travel. Environmental wellness has become an ever-growing issue and is something that travellers are always aware of, but the big question remains: how do we do our part to help while still seeing the world?
Why touring is perfect for eco-conscious travellers
There are ways to make sure that we are reducing our footprints as we travel and help local communities. Many travellers are often against the idea of group tours, but in reality, many of these tour operators actually create a more sustainable (and enjoyable) travel experience.
Countless tour operators have recognized that they need to do something about sustainability and protecting local ecosystems since they’re the heart of the travel industry. This has sparked an incredible trend in the touring world — a focus on working with local communities to create authentic experiences while giving back and focusing on how to reduce the effects of travel on the environment.
Companies like Intrepid Travel, G Adventures, The Bamboo Project, Starfish Adventure, Nullarbar Travel, World Expeditions and more have all made strides in the right direction. Intrepid Travel, as an example, created a Carbon Management Plan in 2006 and reached their goal to be a carbon neutral company just four years later in 2010.
Often tour operators utilize public transit and chartered buses as transportation which gives off significantly less emissions than travellers driving in separate cars. The use of public transit is key, and many operators do this. By using public transit not only are you getting a local experience, you’re also reducing your carbon footprint ten-fold while contributing to the local economy.
Lastly, and most certainly not the least, many tour operators have opted to take a more local approach to travel. Working alongside local community groups to ensure that money remains in the region has become a priority. Tour operators achieve these goals by employing local chefs, adding non-chain restaurants and accommodations to their itineraries and visiting markets that sell the wares of local artisans, cooks, and retailers.
For these reasons (and more) touring has really been making a comeback. To be conscious of your impacts on the environment whilst travelling on your own can be overwhelming, but when you go touring the operators already have proven systems in place. So, when it comes to sustainability and being environmentally friendly, touring is the best option for seeing the world while giving back.
Should you go on an eco-volunteer tour?
If you are really passionate about the environment, then volunteering for a conservation program is a great way to give back to the community. A wide variety of programs exist, from marine conservation (researching, protecting and restoring reefs) to rainforest conservation (studying and documenting rainforest ecosystems).
Popular volunteer conservation tours
GIVE – Nicaragua: A 15 day tour with Growth International Volunteer Excursions. Travel to a secluded island with a local research team and support them as the monitor Hawksbill turtles when they lay their eggs. To help increase their chances of survival, you will help collect the eggs and bring them to the nursery for protection from predators.
Marine Conservation Expedition in the Seychelles: A 28 day tour with Global Vision International. Experience this beautiful part of the world and participate in volunteer work at the same time. You will assist with coral reef research, whale shark migration observations, in-water turtle surveys and much more.
There’s countless options available for travellers looking to combine their adventures with eco-conscious experiences. Find your perfect tour now on TourRadar and make an impact for good today.
