Neglected management of waste, overconsumption of natural resources, increased pollution, there is reason to wonder about the benefits of travel … Traveling independently would not be a solution to these ecological problems?

The use of the plane, tour operators or cruises are the main factors of these ecological problems related to travel. But can we combine travel and respect for the environment? Independent travel seems to be one of those solutions. This article explains how to travel ecologically and independently.

What types of transport to take?

To return to the desired country, the use of the aircraft is not recommended. While faster and perhaps economical, traveling by plane emits much too much CO2. For example, 14 flights in economy class emit an average of 15 tonnes of CO2. Hitchhiking, biking, train or carpooling are alternatives to the plane to travel environmentally.

What should we bring?

In any case, traveling will not reduce this CO2 emission, nor pollution but you can do it in a more eco-friendly way. This also goes through the equipment. In fact, the equipment we buy, the manufacture of our clothing or equipment has an impact on the environment and the emission of greenhouse gases. These consume a lot of water and generate harmful chemicals that are sometimes released into the wild. They are often made in Asia and their transport to Europe contributes to global warming. It is therefore advisable to buy used equipment or clothing, to travel light, to call for loans of equipment and equipment but also to buy natural and synthetic materials.

Housing

The next question is that of housing. How to travel independently and ecologically? The first means, the one that pollutes the least, is the tent. Afterwards, you can also sleep in someone’s home or even exchange your homes under the same principle of Airbnb (although the site now occupies a lot of housing devoted only to tourism). There are also youth hostels available to you in many cities around the world. If you want to go further, consider sorting even if it is not in the mores of the place of reception.

What to eat?

You will have to limit your consumption of meat as well as dairy products. Privilege local, organic products. If you intend to cook, consider buying your products in the markets and not in supermarkets to avoid packaging.

How to have fun in a green way?

It is necessary to avoid all that is leisure with engines or the attractions which take part in the animal abuse (elephant ride, photo with the koalas, etc). During your walks, avoid walking off the trails and remember to take bags to put your waste even if they are biodegradable.

Marine Veillé.