Travelling with the environment in mind

Ines Ruivo

May 30, 2023

Are you travelling sustainably this summer?

Summer is nearly here, and thousands of people will travel across the world to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Tourism remains one of the largest global economic sectors but did you know tourism accounts for around 8% of global carbon emissions, according to the United Nations?

With more people travelling each year, adopting sustainable travel tips UK holidaymakers can follow has never been more important.

Travelling responsibly is linked to our behaviour and the choices we make regarding sustainable practices. When planning your holiday this year, it’s worth taking a moment to consider what you could change.

The destination: Travel with purpose

Plan to visit places that benefit from tourism and need support from the tourist industry. Some destinations recovering from natural disasters rely heavily on responsible visitors.

You may even consider joining a volunteer organisation and getting involved with local community projects. The World Tourism Organization promotes sustainable tourism that supports local economies while protecting cultural heritage.

Choosing destinations thoughtfully is one of the simplest sustainable travel tips to implement.

Pack light, travel smarter

Save time, hassle and money by packing only what you need. I used to pack as if I was travelling for months but have since learned that less is more.

The heavier planes, trains and cars are, the more fuel they consume, resulting in higher carbon emissions. According to the International Energy Agency, transport remains a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

Packing light is a small change that can collectively make a meaningful difference.

Rethink plastic while abroad

Plastic waste continues to increase globally, prompting urgent calls for action from organisations such as the United Nations Environment Programme.

Be part of the solution:

• Avoid single-use plastic bottles, bring a reusable alternative
• Choose local drinks such as fresh coconuts or watermelon in warmer climates
• Avoid plastic straws and takeaway packaging where possible

If you’d like to understand more about reducing plastic at home as well as abroad, visit our Plastic Recycling Guide.

Choose souvenirs carefully

When shopping for souvenirs, try to select local crafts that positively impact the community.

Avoid products made from shells, coral reefs, bones or animal teeth. These purchases can contribute to environmental damage and wildlife exploitation.

Supporting local artisans helps keep tourism sustainable and meaningful.