© Shutterstock

What is sustainability? -

According to the United Nations, sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

© Shutterstock

Why is being eco-friendly important? -

While there are countless reasons, one main thought is the preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity. The planet is home to a range of plant and animal species, and we can help protect their habitats and ensure their survival.

© Shutterstock

Offset your water usage -

Offset the water used during your travels by supporting local water conservation projects or initiatives aimed at providing clean drinking water to those communities in desperate need.

© Shutterstock

Bike or walk - Opt for cycling or walking instead of public transportation or driving to minimize pollution and immerse yourself more fully in the local culture and environment.

© Shutterstock

Choose sustainable sun protection - Choosing reef-safe sunscreen brands, or those that do not contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can have significant environmental benefits.

© Shutterstock

Offset your plastic usage - Do your part and pack reusable bags, straws, and containers, which help to minimize single-use plastics. Additionally, support initiatives that clean up plastic pollution in oceans and waterways.

© Shutterstock

Green cities? Yes, please! -

Visit cities known for their sustainability initiatives, such as Amsterdam, Portland, and Copenhagen. While you’re there, explore their eco-friendly transportation options, green spaces, and renewable energy projects.

© Shutterstock

Support sustainable transportation projects -

Donate money or even your time to organizations that are promoting cycling infrastructure, working to improve public transportation, or developing electric vehicle charging stations in the places you visit.

© Shutterstock

Offset your carbon footprint -

Calculate your trip and travel-related carbon emissions and invest in carbon offset programs or projects that support renewable energy and/or reforestation efforts.

© Shutterstock

Offset your waste -

Minimize waste by packing reusable items, and support recycling and waste management programs in the communities you visit.

© Shutterstock

Community cleanup initiatives -

Whether you’re traveling solo or with others, grab a trash bag and join a local beach cleanup or trail maintenance project to help preserve natural areas and protect wildlife habitats.

© Shutterstock

Support eco-friendly transportation companies -

Choose airlines and transportation companies that prioritize carbon offsetting, fuel efficiency, and sustainable practices.

© Shutterstock

Learn about indigenous cultures -

Indigenous community respect is essential. By learning their customs, traditions, and environmental stewardship practices, you too can support initiatives that empower local communities.

© Shutterstock

Choose sustainable souvenirs - Purchase local, handmade, or locally-produced souvenirs to support artisans and promote cultural preservation while avoiding items made from endangered species or unsustainable materials.

© Shutterstock

Energy-efficient lodging and accommodations - Look for places to call your temporary home that have energy-efficient features such as solar panels, LED lighting, and energy-conscious appliances.

© Shutterstock

Sustainable dining -

If you plan to eat out, prioritize restaurants that serve organic, locally-sourced, and seasonal ingredients to support sustainable agriculture and reduce food miles.

© Shutterstock

Choose responsible tour operators -

Want a private guide to enhance your trip? Research tour operators that respect local cultures and sustainability, as well as support conservation efforts in the destinations they are in.

© Shutterstock

Minimize water usage -

Learning to conserve water is a lifelong skill. Start by taking shorter showers, reusing towels and linens, and avoiding activities that require excessive water consumption.

© Shutterstock

Advocate for sustainable travel policies -

Your voice is such a powerful tool. Learn to speak out in support of policies and initiatives that promote sustainable tourism and that preserve biodiversity for future generations to enjoy.

© Shutterstock

Put 'leave no trace' principles into practice - In short, leave natural areas as you found them. This helps to minimize your impact on fragile ecosystems. Examples include taking your trash with you and staying on designated trails.

© Shutterstock

Travel and volunteer for environmental projects -

Commit yourself and a portion of your trip and time to volunteering with environmental organizations or participating in conservation projects that give back to the places you visit.

© Shutterstock

Stay informed about environmental issues -

Educate yourself about the environmental challenges facing the places you visit, and support advocacy efforts and organizations working to address them.

© Shutterstock

Travel light -

By packing only what you need, you make the trip easier to navigate while also helping to minimize carbon emissions from transportation and reducing the strain on local resources. It’s a win across the board!

© Shutterstock

Food consumption offsetting -

Support sustainable agriculture and food systems by choosing restaurants and markets that prioritize local, ethically-sourced ingredients.

© Shutterstock

Respect the wildlife -

Watch animals only from a safe distance and absolutely do not feed or try to touch them. You can easily disrupt an animal’s entire ecosystem by trying to interact with them too closely or at all in some cases.

© Shutterstock

Offset your paper usage -

Minimize paper usage by opting for digital maps, guides, and tickets, and support reforestation projects to offset any paper products you do use. In this digital age, there is rarely a need for paper usage anyway.

© Shutterstock

Engage in responsible diving and snorkeling -

Choose dive operators who are committed to marine conservation. Additionally, avoid touching or damaging coral reefs, and follow guidelines for responsible underwater photography.

© Shutterstock

Support local businesses -

A thriving local economy is crucial, but sometimes overlooked. When you visit a destination, shop at local markets, eat at locally-owned restaurants, and book tours with local guides to support the economy and reduce the environmental impact of large corporations.

Sources: (GreenMatch) (Sustainable Travel International) (World Nomads) (The New York Times) (United Nations) (Medium)

See also: American cities that changed their names

© Shutterstock