Sustainability in tourism is an undeniable path, which is being taken with growing awareness by the sector's agents, on a global scale.

It means considering the needs of visitors, the sector and communities and its environmental, economic, and social impacts now and in the future.

Help minimise our ecological footprint on the world. To respect others. And to support other people and families during your travels.

Here are some tips on sustainable tourism which can help you to be more mindful during your travels:

1. Don't waste foodIt is not only in practising sustainable tourism that we should avoid food waste.

So, wherever you go, serve your food in moderation, and try to avoid food waste as much as possible.

Whatever you cannot consume now, save for later.

2. Don't pollute the places you visit

We have the responsibility and obligation to maintain the natural beauty of the places we pass through and visit.

Do not let your rubbish interfere with the wellbeing of the environment. Whenever you produce waste, leave it in the appropriate places.

And, if there is no place where you can leave it, keep it and only dispose when possible.
 

3. Take a reusable bottle with you on your travels

This is a simple but important tip. In addition to help you saving it also avoids the consumption of more plastic.

If you do not want to drink tap water, you can always buy a jug of water and fill it up in your reusable, eco-friendly bottle.

4. Support local shops wherever possible

Give priority to local shops, restaurants, and operators.

By helping local shops rather than large stores, you are contributing to a fairer economy and supporting more families. Especially in underdeveloped countries.

5. Use transport modes with Zero CO2 emissions

It depends a lot on the transport conditions at the destination you visit, but try:

- To choose public transportation.

- Select options with Zero CO2 emissions.

- Also use non-polluting vehicles or prefer visits by bicycle, segway or on foot in the traditional Walking Tours.

- To choose for operators with sustainable practices such as Living Tours - Our Environmental Causes.

6. Choosing accommodation with sustainable practices

Fortunately, sustainability practices in accommodation have been growing all over the world. And to ensure this, there are certifications.

Accommodation that meets international standards of good practice usually carries a certified label.

7. Don´t participate in activities with wild animals under exploitative conditions

I understand that it can be extremely exciting to take pictures or climb and walk on wild animals such as elephants, tigers, camels, dolphins …

Do not contribute to the development of animal exploitation anywhere.

Do you know that elephants and camels used as tourist attractions are constantly mistreated? And that they are often left with serious effects, unable to return to mother nature, even if they have been through animal rehabilitation centres?

Let us not get involved in the exploitation of animals, even indirectly.

8. ​ Be careful with photographs of people

Sometimes taking pictures is what you wish but realise that you must be a little careful and respectful of the locals.

Local people are not tourist objects. They are people like us and, as such, they deserve our respect.

So, strike up a conversation, ask questions and eventually ask if you can take a souvenir photo.

This is much more fun, and they are often proud to be in the photo, but you must respect them!