Mindful Vacationing
by Blake Frino
I used to think that camping or going on holiday where nature was consistently in view was as environmentally conscious as they come. Oh, was I wrong! Green house gases pollute the environment just by driving to that campground and who knows what kind of destruction occurred at that resort on that lush island. Nowadays, there are a lot of alternatives to help us feel better about indulging in a vacation. Many green hotels and vacation trips have been created to show us that we can vacation with eco-consciousness.
It’s a matter of responsibility. When choosing destinations, accommodations and tour operators, consider which ones work to protect the environment and benefit local cultures and communities. Also, look for green certifications (www.greenseal.org).
The International Ecotourism Society has a mission to unite communities and offer conservation and sustainable travel. The organization’s website www.ecotourism.org allows you to search for eco-friendly trips, hotels and transportation. According to TIES, the average U.S. domestic flight releases 1700 lbs. per passenger of C02, which is a main contributor to global warming. You can help offset carbon emissions from planes (or cars) by supporting reforestation and energy conservation programs, such as Future Forests (www.futureforests.com) and Climate Care (www.co2.org).
Stay in a family-run B&B or inn, a luxury teepee, yurt, or green hotel (www.greenhotels.com). Green accommodations are environmentally-friendly properties with managers eager to institute programs that save water, save energy and reduce solid waste. Certain hotel chains now provide towel-rack hangers and sheet-changing cards, so guests choose whether or not they need a change of fresh towels and linens during their stay. While these are simple changes, they can make a big impact.
Once you’re at your eco-destination, ride bikes or use public transportation. By using these inexpensive and eco-friendly ways of getting around, you also get the chance to see more sights.