How can you create a sustainable travel program?

1 Choose your destination wisely

The first step to creating a sustainable travel program is to research and select your destination based on its environmental and social performance, as well as its attractiveness and suitability for your travel objectives. You can use online tools and ratings, such as the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) criteria, the Travelife certification, or the Green Destinations standards, to assess the sustainability of different destinations and compare them. You can also look for destinations that have implemented initiatives to protect their natural and cultural heritage, such as biosphere reserves, world heritage sites, or ecotourism zones.

2 Book with sustainable providers

The next step is to choose your travel providers, such as airlines, hotels, tour operators, and guides, based on their commitment and practices to sustainability. You can look for providers that have obtained recognized sustainability labels or certifications, such as the Rainforest Alliance, the Green Globe, or the Fair Trade Tourism. You can also check their websites and policies to see how they address environmental, social, and economic issues, such as carbon emissions, waste management, human rights, and local development. You can also ask them questions about their sustainability efforts and expectations before you book with them.

3 Pack light and smart

The third step is to pack light and smart for your sustainable travel program. This means bringing only the essentials and avoiding unnecessary items that can add weight and volume to your luggage, which can increase your carbon footprint and your costs. You can also pack items that can help you reduce your environmental impact and respect the local culture, such as reusable water bottles, bags, and straws, biodegradable toiletries, sunscreens, and insect repellents, appropriate clothing and accessories, and gifts or donations for the local communities.

4 Travel green and local

The fourth step is to travel green and local during your sustainable travel program. This means choosing the most eco-friendly and efficient modes of transportation, such as trains, buses, bikes, or walking, instead of flying or driving whenever possible. You can also offset your carbon emissions by purchasing carbon credits or supporting projects that reduce greenhouse gases. You can also travel local by using public transport, staying in locally owned accommodations, eating in local restaurants, buying local products, and participating in local activities and events.

5 Respect and support the destination

The fifth step is to respect and support the destination you visit during your sustainable travel program. This means following the local laws, customs, and etiquette, and being polite and courteous to the local people. You can also learn some basic words and phrases in the local language, and show interest and appreciation for the local culture and history. You can also support the destination by contributing to its conservation and development, such as volunteering, donating, or joining projects that protect the environment, empower the communities, or promote the culture.

6 Reflect and share your experience

The sixth and final step is to reflect and share your experience after your sustainable travel program. This means evaluating and reviewing your travel providers, and giving them feedback and suggestions on how they can improve their sustainability performance. You can also share your experience with your family, friends, colleagues, and online networks, and inspire them to travel sustainably as well. You can also use your experience to enhance your personal and professional skills, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving, and apply them to your future endeavors.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?