Hello Evendo travelers! I’m Aya Kouassi, and I'm thrilled to share my passion for sustainable tourism with you. As an Ivorian immigrant living in Canada, I've come to deeply appreciate the importance of preserving our planet and its diverse cultures for future generations. Let’s explore how we can make a positive impact through mindful travel.
The Growing Importance of Sustainable Travel
More and more, travelers are waking up to the impact our adventures have on the environment and local communities. It's no longer enough to just see the world; we need to protect it. Recent research from Booking.com in 2025 shows a significant surge in travelers actively seeking sustainable options. People are realizing that tourism isn't just a fleeting experience; it’s something that needs to be nurtured and protected to ensure future generations can also enjoy the beauty of our world.
Sustainable tourism isn't just a trend; it's a necessity. It's about safeguarding our planet's natural wonders and cultural heritage. It’s about ensuring that the places we love to visit remain vibrant and thriving for years to come. For me, as someone who left Cote d'Ivoire to build a life in Canada, responsible travel hits close to home. I want my daughter, Nadia, to experience the same rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty that I did growing up. That's why every trip we take is an opportunity to make a positive difference.
Choosing Eco-Friendly Accommodations
One of the easiest ways to embrace sustainable travel is by choosing eco-friendly accommodations. But how do you know which hotels and resorts are truly committed to sustainability? Look for eco-friendly certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Green Key, and EarthCheck. These certifications indicate that the accommodation meets specific environmental standards, from energy efficiency to waste reduction.
There are some incredible eco-friendly accommodations around the world that are leading the way in sustainable tourism. Take Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman, for example. They focus on minimizing their environmental impact through water conservation and waste management. Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali is another gem, known for its sustainable design and commitment to local community development. And who hasn't dreamed of The Brando in French Polynesia, a luxury resort powered by renewable energy? Platforms like EcoBnb and Fairbnb.coop are also great resources for finding sustainable listings that prioritize community benefits.
Even if you're not staying at a certified eco-hotel, there are still plenty of ways to practice sustainability. Simple actions like reusing towels, minimizing water use, and participating in hotel sustainability programs can make a big difference.
Mindful Consumption: Eating and Shopping Locally
Supporting local businesses is a fantastic way to give back to the communities you visit. When you dine at local restaurants, shop at farmers' markets, and buy locally-made products, you're not just getting a taste of the local culture; you're also helping to boost the local economy. Plus, it's a great way to connect with the people who call these places home.
Don't be afraid to try new and unfamiliar dishes! Food is such an integral part of any culture, and exploring local cuisine can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Take the time to learn about the cultural significance of the food you're eating, and be open to trying new things.
Reducing waste is also key to mindful consumption. Bring reusable shopping bags and containers with you, and try to avoid single-use plastics whenever possible. It's amazing how much waste we can accumulate while traveling, but with a little bit of planning, we can significantly reduce our impact.
As someone who loves exploring global cuisine, I always make a point of visiting local farmers' markets whenever I travel. In my hometown of Kingston, the Memorial Centre Farmers' Market is a favourite. It's a fantastic way to discover new ingredients, support local farmers, and connect with the community.
Sustainable Transportation Options
Transportation is a major contributor to carbon emissions, so choosing sustainable transportation options is crucial for eco-conscious travelers. Whenever possible, opt for public transportation, cycling, or walking. Many cities have excellent public transportation systems that can take you just about anywhere you want to go. And cycling and walking are not only great for the environment but also allow you to experience a place more intimately.
The market for electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid vehicles is growing rapidly, making it easier than ever to travel in a more sustainable way. Innovative transportation solutions like electric scooters, solar-powered boats, and high-speed rail are also becoming increasingly popular.
If flying is unavoidable, consider offsetting your carbon emissions. There are many reputable organizations that offer carbon offsetting programs, which invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Even small contributions can make a big difference.
Traveling with my family, I'm always looking for ways to make our adventures more eco-friendly. Whether it's taking the train instead of flying or renting bikes to explore a new city, we try to make conscious choices that minimize our impact on the planet.
Minimizing Waste: Practical Tips for Travelers
Reducing waste is one of the most impactful things we can do as travelers. Start by packing light and choosing sustainable travel gear. Look for brands that offer products with minimal packaging, like Ethique and Meow Meow Tweet, which are known for their eco-friendly and plastic-free toiletries.
Always carry a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils. Single-use plastics are a huge problem, but by bringing your own reusable items, you can significantly reduce your contribution to plastic waste. When disposing of waste, be sure to do it properly. Recycle whenever possible, and avoid littering.
Growing up in Cote d'Ivoire, I learned the importance of resourcefulness and waste minimization from a young age. Traditional Ivorian practices often emphasize reusing and repurposing items, rather than simply throwing them away. These values have stayed with me throughout my life, and I try to incorporate them into my travels as much as possible.
Discover how small changes in travel habits can contribute to more sustainable tourism practices, benefiting both the environment and local communities.
