Sustainable tourism: 10 tips for your next vacation
What does Sustainable Development mean?
"Sustainable Development is the one that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs"
Also defined as "the economic activity that produces goods and services that, respecting the physical limits of the space in which it takes place and the mental limits of the inhabitants and other actors, are intended for those who decide to temporarily and voluntarily move away from their usual place of residence without join the labor market of the place of destination, with or without recreation. Capece, G. 1997»
The Charter of Lanzarote (Canary Islands 1995), produced by those attending the World Conference on Sustainable Tourism, states that as tourism is a powerful instrument for development, it can and should actively participate in the strategy of sustainable development. Good tourism management requires ensuring the sustainability of the resources on which it depends.
So… what does Sustainable Tourism mean?
We understand sustainable tourism as those activities that are respectful of the natural, cultural and social environment, and that also respect the values of a community. Sustainable tourism allows a positive exchange of experiences between residents and visitors, where the relationship between the tourist and the community is fair and the benefits of the activity are shared equally, as visitors have a truly participatory attitude in their travel experience.
How can we become a Responsible Tourist and help with Sustainable Tourism?
At Onesixth Expeditions we had an amazing opportunity to start a business with core values that would guide us for the years to come. We built a business that will create a positive impact for the local communities, wildlife and it is better for the planet. All Onesixth Expeditions programs have triple impact policies. As a company, we are also committed to encourage our passengers to join us in this path of sustainability. That’s why we would like to share the decalogue for the Responsible Tourist, as a guide that may help understand what simple actions can make a big difference.
1: Take care of nature. Nowhere in the world is littering acceptable. If you are going to carry out activities in nature, remember to bring the garbage back and respect the flora and fauna. Without exceptions.
2: Respect different cultures. Traveling implies having contact with other people and their customs. Diversity is a quality that makes the world wonderful; that is why respecting the local culture is an essential condition of a responsible traveler.
3: Get information of the destination before traveling. Knowing the laws and customs of other countries improves the travel experience. An informed traveler is less likely to commit actions that are outside the law. You also need to have health information, such as emergency services.
4: Accept that there are different people. In the world, people have different perceptions and realities. It is possible that many do not understand you or vice versa. Showing good intentions and allowing yourself to help speaks of a responsible traveler.
5: Try the local gastronomy. Support the local supply of food, because it is a way to help the economic development of the region. Get involved with sustainable gastronomy.
6: Buy handcrafted products. Many people make a living from handicrafts. If you are going to make purchases, verify that they are not manufactured articles of foreign origin. That helps local economies.
7: Be a sustainable traveler. When traveling, choose to take care of non-renewable resources such as water, electricity and gas. Remember that these resources belong to the planet, and that the damage is global.
8: Give priority to the air. Use as much as possible sustainable transport. Most tourist destinations have bicycle rentals, that way you do not pollute and improve your health. Sharing transfers and tours with other people is another way of mitigating the impact.
9: Respect native animals. Traveling responsibly implies respecting the rest of the individuals on the planet. Therefore, find out about the native animals and the places where hunting and fishing are allowed.
10: Chose responsible travel agencies that compensate the Footprint and that take into account sustainable criteria.
Would you add any more?