Tourist Guide to Travel in a Sustainable Way

What was one "positive" thing that came out of the year 2020?

A renewed focus on long-term sustainability. During the pandemic, companies' actions were closely scrutinised. As the economy slowed due to the lockdowns, every company's commitment to social responsibility – or lack thereof - was on full display.

People noticed which companies cared and which did not. These observations resulted in a record $12.2 billion in ESG fund investments. As travel limitations loosen and the tourist sector seeks new explorers, this new value is transforming our perceptions of travel. Traveling sustainably isn't a fad. It's just one of many ways the pandemic has altered our lives. Here are five suggestions for embracing sustainability on your next international trip.

5 Ways to Travel in a More Sustainable Way

According to National Geographic, 42% of Americans are willing to put sustainability ahead of other considerations when travelling.

But what exactly does that imply?

To different people, sustainability means different things. There are numerous factors to consider when travelling, ranging from environmental concerns to how tourism affects local residents. Sustainability is a broad term that refers to actions and preferences that help us achieve our own needs while also meeting the needs of those around us.

On your next trip, here are five ways to embrace that.

Consider Other Modes of Transportation

According to studies, aircraft travel contributes to 3% of total CO2 emissions. That may seem insignificant until we remember that flying is a far less common means of transportation than automobiles. Despite this, a round-trip aircraft from LAX to Bangkok generates just over three tonnes of CO2, which is less than a single automobile emits in a year.

As a result, a lot of people are reconsidering flying to their next vacation. Consider taking the train, bus, vehicle, or even a motorcycle the next time you go out.

Here are some pointers to get you started:

Travel more slowly. You don't need to use quick modes of transportation if you're not in a hurry. Getting on a train or bus is also an adventure in and of itself.

Travel like locals. Do you see a lot of motorcycles in your neighbourhood? Bicycles, for example. These modes of transportation are frequently not only less expensive and more convenient, but they are also more environmentally friendly.

Opt for shared rides. Look for methods to share the travel with others as much as possible, from songthaews to shared taxis.

Dispose of the Disposables

Did you realise that we consume one million plastic bottles per minute as a society? The great majority of them do not go through the recycling process.

Of course, you can replace more than simply plastic bottles. Replacement of disposables with high-quality and lasting alternatives can help maintain your journey sustainable, from cutlery to clothing.

There is, however, one caveat to this. Refrain from throwing everything out and replacing it right away. Instead, reuse it until it's no longer usable. Then swap it out for something better.

Similarly, avoid purchasing "travel clothing" that are only for the purpose of adorning your suitcase. The fashion industry not only pollutes heavily, but it's also possible that the clothes you're wearing are inappropriate for the climate or culture you're visiting.

Then, guess what, you throw them away.

Go Digital As Much As Possible

Everything these days, from your tickets to your accommodations, can be done digitally. Many locales are shifting to digital ways of operation to attract tech-savvy tourists as the internet has become pervasive.

This is especially true in the aftermath of the epidemic, leading to a surge in interest in contactless transactions. As a result, going digital is both better for the environment and safer. We suggest that you:

To make it easier to obtain paperwork, download applications for the services you use.

When e-visas are available, use them. Send digital postcards.

Get digital brochures or brochures that you can return whenever you're done with them.

When possible, use contactless payment options like Apple Pay.

Get an eSIM

Although SIM cards are little, they have a big impact on the environment. According to the International Card Manufacturers Association, the production of a single SIM card emits roughly 50 grams of CO2. That's because a single SIM card necessitates the usage of PVC plastic, aluminium, and even precious metals. That may not seem like a lot until you remember that two billion of them are produced each year alone for smartphones.

Getting an eSIM is one of the most effective ways to help mitigate this. Instead of picking up a local SIM card wherever you go (many of which will be single-use), download data packages to your eSIM-capable phone before you leave. This keeps you connected, gives you access to all of your travel apps, and keeps you from contributing to carbon emissions.

With Airhub, you may embrace a more environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

Sustainable travel has become a major emphasis for both tourists and the travel industry, but it is far more than a fad. It's here to stay, like most of the changes brought on by the pandemic.

We've looked at five different methods to include sustainability into your next trip. You may have fun while respecting the requirements of the people, culture, and corner of the globe you visit by carefully selecting your means of transportation, tours, and keepsakes.

Using an eSIM, remove the SIM card. Take a look around the Airhub marketplace right now.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Author - David Garrood