When you think back to your last vacation, do you remember what it was that made you pick that specific destination? Chances are that the prospect of warm, sunny weather, or maybe snowy landscapes played a major part in your decision. Tourism is more dependent on an intact environment and climate than any other industry. Tropical beaches, lush rainforests, snow-filled mountain vistas, and other natural environments are key motivators for vacation choices.

What happens when weather conditions start changing, and all that attracted you to your favorite places is now beginning to disappear? This is an extreme scenario of course, yet the probability of global warming affecting the tourism industry is growing by the day. However, the good news is that by becoming more aware and making even small adjustments to the way we travel, we can all contribute to the preservation of the travel destinations that have left an impression on us. Below, we share a number of tips that might seem like small actions, but their effects can add up to make a big impact:

Travel Tip #1: Planning your Trip

When planning your trip, be sure to choose accommodations that are committed to social- and environmental conservation. The most effective way to find hotels that have a demonstrated commitment to sustainability is to look for those that have third-party sustainable tourism certifications, like those we feature in SustainableTrip.org. Our recent blog post provides a good overview of the most prevalent certification programs in the Americas.

Travel Tip #2: Reduce Travel Emissions

The most damaging and carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) emitting part of your vacation is usually the flight. Reducing the greenhouse gas emissions from your trip is one of the most important ways to help prevent global warming on your vacation; we encourage you to offset your CO₂ emissions with one of many available carbon neutralization programs, such as:

CarbonFund.org - This website offers a carbon calculator to help you determine the carbon emissions of your flight. To offset these emissions, CarbonFund offers reforestation, conservation, renewable energy, as well as energy efficiency projects.

MyClimate.org - This organization also offers a carbon calculator for carbon emissions and a wide variety of projects, distributed over the entire world, focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency and reduction of methane emissions.

Once you arrive at your destination, why not rent a hybrid car, or use public transportation? Another great way to travel shorter distances is to rent a bicycle or simply walk; you will be surprised at how much deeper you will be able to immerse yourself in the local culture ...besides, they're great exercise and then you can enjoy even more delicious local cuisine afterwards!

Travel Tip #3: Reduce your Impact at your Destination

Having traveled to your destination with a reduced carbon footprint, you can further reduce your CO₂ emissions by making small changes in your travel behavior:

Buy local

Another way you get to know the local culture, enjoy new experiences, and even save money is buying and use local products, since shipping food and other products is a huge contribution to global carbon emissions. Opting for locally-owned restaurants, bars, and hotels is often a rewarding choice, not only in terms of financial and CO₂ savings, but especially because of the unforgettable experiences you gain.

Low-Impact Recreation

Most destinations you visit will offer a rich natural and cultural environment. While enjoying these, we encourage you to do so in a low-impact way. For instance, choose kayaking, snorkeling, or surfing instead of speed-boating or jet-skiing. Ski or sled down the mountain instead of renting a snowmobile. Walk and bike instead of renting a scooter. These small changes can greatly reduce your emissions.

Reduce your Water Consumption

In many tropical countries, water is as precious as gold, as its supply is limited, especially during specific times of the year. You can make a huge difference by taking shorter showers and turning off the water when you are not using it (e.g. while brushing your teeth). Another easy way is to reuse your sheets and towels.

Conserving Electricity

One of the easiest ways to make a difference! Be sure to turn off and unplug electrical appliances after using them, turn down your air-conditioning (if available), and be sure to turn off the lights when leaving your hotel room.

Why not also change some of your habits back home? You can also look into new and different ways to make your next vacation even more environmentally-friendly. Visit our "sustainable tourism" page for more tips, and share your ideas in the "comments" section below:

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