How to reduce your ecological footprint while on holiday?

Sunday, 13 July 2025 16:29

Exploring the world is a wonderful experience – but it's important not to leave too big a footprint behind. Our ecological footprint matters not just in our daily lives but also when we travel. The good news: you don't have to give up on adventures, you just need to plan more consciously! Here's how you can make your travels more sustainable – step by step.

Choose greener transportation!

Transportation is one of the biggest environmental impacts of travelling. Flying, for example, emits a significant amount of carbon dioxide. If possible, opt for trains or long-distance buses for shorter distances, as they offer much more sustainable alternatives.

If you're travelling by car, consider carpooling or sharing the ride with others. For urban transport, walking, cycling, or using public transport are the best choices – not only for the environment but also for the experience.

Book sustainable accommodation

Choosing accommodation is also an important step. Look for places that are consciously committed to the environment. Truly sustainable accommodations often have certifications (e.g., Good Travel Seal, Green Key) and transparently communicate the measures they take for sustainability.

Check if they have recycling facilities, energy-efficient appliances, water-saving practices, or breakfasts made from local ingredients. These are small but telling signs. You can read more about how to choose sustainable accommodation in our previous travel tip.

Eat local, eat seasonal!

Choosing local food is not only more exciting from a culinary perspective but also much more environmentally friendly. Locally produced goods don't travel far, resulting in lower transport emissions, and you also support the local economy.

At farmers' markets, small eateries, or family-run restaurants, you can discover flavours that truly belong to the region – making your travel experience even richer.

Respect nature and culture

As tourists, we are guests – whether in natural or cultural environments. It's important to stick to designated trails, avoid littering, and not disturb wildlife. Protected areas are especially sensitive to human presence.

Respecting local culture is also part of responsible tourism: dress appropriately, respect religious or community customs, and avoid purchasing products that are illegally or unethically made.

Reduce waste

Many forget that travelling generates a lot of waste – plastic bottles, plastic bags, disposable cutlery. Instead, bring a reusable water bottle, your own tote bag, and reusable containers.

At your accommodation, take advantage of opportunities: ask not to have towels or bed linen changed daily, and opt for large, refillable toiletries instead of small plastic bottles.

What you can't avoid, you can offset

Travelling completely waste-free or emission-free is almost impossible – but what you can't avoid, you can now offset. Reliable carbon offset programmes support reforestation, renewable energy, or conservation projects.

You can also support local community or ecological projects that improve the quality of life in the area in the long term – turning your travel impact not only into less harm but potentially into a positive contribution.

Leave value – not a footprint

Sustainable travel isn't about sacrifice, it's about mindfulness. You don't need to seek fewer experiences – just choose more carefully how and where you experience them. Environmental protection and responsible decisions go hand in hand with richer, deeper travel experiences.

Be part of the change – because the world we explore will only stay beautiful if we take care of it.