Traveling around the world can offer some of the greatest inspiration to preserve this wonderful gem that we call Earth, but traveling can also be harmful for the unaware eco-consumer.
In an effort to witness all the natural beauty of Central America and its world renowned national parks, make an effort to avoid inadvertent damage. Take these steps from National Geographic’s Traveler for the ultimate guide to sustainable travel:
- Try booking a stay at an environmentally friendly resort or hotel. Be mindful of the global impacts of resources used; take initiative to find a local eco friendly hotel or even community environmental programs near your lodging. Visit LaCocoteraResort.com to read about our environmentally friendly methods and our Green Leaf Certification.
- Make sure to unplug your home or office when you leave for a vacation. Responsible traveling begins at home! Before you head out, make sure to unplug any appliance that won’t be in use while you’re away, such as computers, phone chargers, televisions, video game players and microwaves. According to Thomas Kostigen, co-author of The Green Book, “as much as 10 percent of the electricity used in your home is wasted energy burned by adapters, chargers, computers and other appliances that we leave plugged in when we’re not using them.”
- When you are making preparations for your trip, go paperless. Use online resources to plan and book your trip, and only when necessary, print out maps and other materials at home on recycled paper.
- To lessen the negative impact of your travels - and help ensure optimum positive impact - thoroughly research your destination before you book. Traveling to some destinations during the market-induced high season can increase your overall negative impact, so planning a month earlier or later can be beneficial.
- Finally, visit during a festival, or schedule your trips in conjunction with vibrant, local celebrations that provide a window into the culture and help support traditional crafts and customs. This helps sustain local economies and cultures. Travelers support the living culture because they spend money on food, lodging, locally made crafts or local events. One of our most popular events at our hotel is the turtle release program, which helps the eco system and supports the culture without inadvertently trampling it.
All these methods are simple and helpful ways to travel better and show respect for the ecosystem both in your own home and all they way across the world.
