Travelling can be a wonderfully enriching experience. However, exploring new places often comes at a huge cost to the environment: aviation alone accounts for 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. As a result, eco-minded travellers are seeking more sustainable methods to satiate their wanderlust while minimising the mark that’s left on the planet.
Since the pandemic, the industry has grown exponentially, with more and more people wanting to travel in this way – and this trend shows no signs of slowing. In fact, by 2028, the global ecotourism sector is expected to be worth over $374 billion, more than double 2022’s value of $172.4. So what’s driving this clamour for green escapes? In this post, we explore three key reasons why they have become so popular.
A growing conscience
As global warming becomes an increasingly urgent issue, a growing proportion of the population are committing to making more sustainable choices. Even if you’re not a frequent traveller, holidays can be huge eco offenders. They’re wonderful opportunities to cut down on our carbon footprint and see the world without compromising on our environmental values. And, according to a recent survey, 50% of people are even willing to pay more for a holiday that meets their eco expectations.
More consumers are concerning themselves with the green credentials of accommodation options or experience providers – this information can often be found on company websites. Though it can take a little extra research, finding the options that align with your lifestyle will leave you to enjoy a guilt-free holiday that’s kinder to the planet. If you want to filter your accommodation options for sustainable certifications next time you travel, you’re part of the 59% of holidaymakers searching for stays in this way.
Opportunities to make real-world impacts
Sustainable tourism isn’t just about making more eco-friendly choices when planning your holiday. Travelling to new destinations presents a wealth of opportunities to engage with important local projects that contribute to the betterment of our planet. As well as helping to boost your holiday’s eco credentials, volunteering can provide you with more unique travel experiences you might not otherwise have had; it’s also a great chance to make new connections with like-minded people.
If you don’t necessarily want to add some volunteering to your itinerary, there are plenty more ways you can support the local community during your stay. Firstly, consider staying in rented homes rather than hotels; if you do stay in a hotel, be sure to check out its eco credentials to find out its policies on things like energy, waste disposal and water supplies. Or, consider travelling out of season, to support local economies and avoid contributing to overtourism.
Cost-saving opportunities
Often, people looking to make more sustainable lifestyle choices face certain financial barriers. While it isn’t true in every case, lots of travellers have found that planning a greener holiday can actually help their budget to go that much further.
With sustainability at the core of your itinerary, you’re forced to be a little more creative with your choices. Whether that’s taking a train instead of flying, choosing to cook your own meals using local ingredients, or using public transport to get around instead of hiring a car, there are plenty of opportunities to save money while enjoying a more authentic experience.