With World Earth Day on 22 April, travel experts are urging holidaymakers to adopt more sustainable practices to protect popular destinations from pollution, environmental degradation and over-consumption of resources. Ruth Woodall, sustainability lead at B Corp-certified operator Inntravel, emphasises that staying closer to home can significantly reduce carbon impact. 'There are so many amazing places within the British Isles that people often overlook,' she notes, advising travellers to balance local exploration with meaningful overseas trips.
Woodall also recommends taking fewer but longer holidays to minimise the carbon footprint of travel. 'Going on one big three-week holiday a year rather than seven weekend breaks is much better for the environment,' she explains. Embracing 'slow travel' by opting for trains or coaches over flights is another key tip, with Miranda Seymour, a luxury travel advisor at Travel Counsellors, highlighting the availability of scenic train routes across Europe, including high-end luxury options.
Once at the destination, simple choices like walking or using public transport instead of private transfers can cut carbon emissions while enhancing cultural immersion. Supporting local economies is paramount: Seymour suggests choosing locally owned accommodation over international chains and asking questions about employment of local people, use of local produce and community support. 'You want your money to stay local rather than just going overseas to a global company,' she says.
Minimising waste is easy by packing reusable water bottles, straws and tote bags, and decanting toiletries from home. Dining at local restaurants and using local tour guides further ensures that spending benefits the community directly. Seymour cites the Pink City Rickshaw Company in Jaipur, a non-profit empowering low-income women through e-rickshaw tours, as an example of memorable, responsible travel.
