New year, new habits: How to travel sustainably in 2024

Imagine enjoying a peaceful moment on a quiet beach in Bali, with the gentle sea breeze caressing your skin. Or exploring the bustling streets of Tokyo, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture and indulging in delicious street food. Maybe you dream of surfing in Siargao or scuba diving in Apo Reef Natural Park in the Philippines.

Traveling has always been one of the most enriching and fulfilling experiences, giving us a chance to explore new cultures, meet new people, and create unforgettable memories.

However, with the joy of travel comes a responsibility we cannot ignore. With the growing concerns about climate change and environmental sustainability, it’s time for us to rethink our travel habits.

The start of a new year is the perfect moment to reflect and set new intentions, so why not make a conscious effort to travel sustainably in 2024?

The impact of tourism growth in Asia

The tourism industry in Asia has been booming. International arrivals in the Asia Pacific region experienced substantial growth in 2022, as reported by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). Furthermore, the early periods of 2023 witnessed a notable strengthening in this trend.

This influx of visitors brings economic growth, but it also places a heavy burden on the environment and local communities. Overcrowding, pollution, habitat destruction — these are just a few of the challenges that popular tourist destinations face.

Sustainable travel, therefore, is not just a trend; it’s a necessity.

It’s about making choices that reduce our impact on the environment and enrich the communities we visit.

It’s about understanding that our actions as travelers have consequences and that we have the power to make a positive difference.

This guide will help you navigate responsible travel. Read on to discover how you can explore Asia in 2024 while leaving a lighter footprint behind.

Understanding sustainable travel

Sustainable travel, or ecotourism as it’s often called, is much more than a catchy phrase.

It’s a commitment to being a conscientious traveler, one who respects the environment and values the cultures they encounter.

It’s about exploring new places with curiosity and humility, leaving nothing but footprints and taking away nothing but memories.

In heavily visited regions like Asia, the call for sustainable travel rings louder than ever. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the beautiful beaches of Boracay, you can feel the environmental and cultural pressures all around. The coral reefs, the rainforests, the wildlife, and the people — everything is inextricably linked in a delicate balance that the influx of tourists can easily tip.

The benefits of sustainable travel are manifold, not just for the environment and local communities but also for us as travelers.

When we choose to travel sustainably, we contribute to the protection of biodiversity and the preservation of cultural heritage.

We support local economies and promote equality.

And perhaps most importantly, we enrich our own travel experiences. We learn, we grow, and we connect on a deeper level with the places we visit.

A recent report by Booking.com revealed that a significant 80% of global travelers consider sustainable travel to be of utmost importance. Furthermore, an impressive 59% express a heightened determination to make more sustainable travel choices compared to a year ago.

These findings show the growing awareness and willingness to embrace sustainable travel.

But we need to turn this willingness into action, and that begins with making conscious decisions while planning and executing our travels.

Choose sustainable travel destinations and accommodations

Asia is home to destinations that have embraced the concept of ecotourism, making them unique, enriching, and responsible choices for the mindful traveler.

Take the verdant island of Palawan in the Philippines, for example. Crowned as the world’s best island multiple times, it’s not just its azure waters and pristine beaches that make it stand out.

Club Paradise Palawan has nailed the perfect balance between offering a luxurious guest experience and taking care of the environment. Plus, they’re leading the way in sustainable tourism and have even been recognized as one of the world’s top sustainable destinations.

In the heart of Cambodia, you’ll find the Cardamom Tented Camp, an ecolodge committed to preserving one of Southeast Asia’s last remaining rainforests. Here, luxury meets conservation. Guests can immerse themselves in the wilderness, all while knowing that their stay contributes directly to the protection of the area’s precious wildlife.

In Sri Lanka, the city of Galle is an incredible example of sustainable tourism. The city’s fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is meticulously preserved to retain its historic charm.

Jetwing Lighthouse, a hotel in Galle, is a green oasis with its own solar power generation, wastewater treatment plant, and biodegradable amenities.

Indonesia’s Bali is renowned for its commitment to environmental preservation. Its village of Ubud, in particular, has been pioneering sustainable practices long before they became trendy.

Bambu Indah, a boutique hotel in Ubud, is built entirely from locally sourced bamboo and antique Javanese teak wood houses, offering an authentic and eco-friendly Balinese experience.

Thailand’s Chiang Mai, with its lush mountains and tranquil temples, is another eco-friendly destination.

Rachamankha, a member of the Secret Retreats, is a boutique hotel that champions local crafts, traditional architecture, and heritage conservation while providing luxury accommodations.

Singapore, a bustling city-state, might seem like an unlikely candidate, but it’s making impressive strides in urban sustainability.

PARKROYAL Collection Marina Bay stands out with its innovative ‘hotel-in-a-garden’ concept, an Atrium skylight that offers natural light and blocks heat, an in-room water filtration system, and an urban farm that contributes 20% of the hotel’s food supply, among a long list of sustainability initiatives.

Tips for choosing sustainable accommodations

Now, let’s explore how you can find and select places that incorporate sustainability into the guest experience.

1. Certifications: Look for recognized sustainability certifications like Green Destinations, LEED, or EarthCheck.
2. Energy efficiency: Find out if the property uses renewable energy sources or energy-saving appliances.
3. Water conservation: Check if the hotel practices water conservation through methods like rainwater harvesting or greywater recycling.
4. Waste management: Confirm if the accommodation has effective waste management systems. Do they compost, recycle, or avoid single-use plastics?
5. Local community support: Determine if the hotel supports local businesses or contributes to community projects, including organizing community-led tours.
6. Sustainable food options: Look for hotels that offer locally sourced, organic, or vegetarian/vegan food options.
7. Eco-friendly amenities: Choose hotels that provide refillable toiletries, use biodegradable products, and avoid unnecessary packaging.
8. Conservation efforts: Assess whether the accommodation contributes to local conservation efforts or educates guests about environmental responsibility.

Choosing sustainable destinations and accommodations is a powerful way to travel responsibly. It allows us to enjoy our journeys while respecting the planet and enhancing the lives of the communities we visit.

The art of slow travel

In the rush of modern life, we often forget that travel is not just about getting to a destination but also about savoring the journey.

So, let’s take a moment to appreciate the art of slow travel, shall we?

It’s not just a passing trend; it’s a conscious choice to really engage with your surroundings, appreciate the subtleties of a culture, relish the local cuisine, and form genuine connections with the amazing people you encounter along the way. It’s all about ditching the checklist mentality and embracing a more immersive, rewarding, and sustainable travel experience.

Asia, with its diverse cultures and landscapes, offers abundant opportunities for slow travel.

Whether it’s meandering through the ancient temples of Kyoto, lingering over a cup of traditional tea in the highlands of Taiwan, or strolling along the pristine beaches of Phuket, Asia invites you to slow down, soak in its beauty, and travel mindfully.

Asia also offers a variety of eco-friendly transit options that align perfectly with this mindful approach. Public transit systems like the MRT in Singapore, the BTS Skytrain in Bangkok, or the Shinkansen in Japan are efficient and affordable and significantly reduce your carbon footprint.

Bike rentals are another wonderful way to navigate Asian cities like Beijing and Intramuros in Manila, allowing you to experience the local life up-close, at your own pace, while reducing your carbon footprint.

Electric vehicles and hybrids are also on the rise, with taxi services like Grab offering ‘green’ rides in various Asian cities.

Lastly, let’s not forget the simplest mode of transport — walking. Choosing destinations that are pedestrian-friendly not only lowers your environmental impact but also allows you to discover hidden gems that you might miss otherwise. Stroll through the charming streets of Hoi An in Vietnam, explore the historical lanes of Kolkata in India, or lose yourself in the bustling markets of Istanbul in Turkey.

Remember, efficient travel is not about rushing from one place to another but about savoring each moment, each interaction, each sight, and each flavor.

Actionable steps to travel sustainably in 2024

Travel is an adventure and a window into the diverse cultures and stunning landscapes of our world.

It’s also an opportunity to make a positive impact, which starts with adopting sustainable travel practices.

Here are some practical tips to help you lighten your environmental impact:

On reducing plastic use while traveling

1. Bring a reusable water bottle. Not only does this save money, but it also prevents countless plastic bottles from ending up in landfills.
2. Pack a reusable shopping bag. This is handy for impromptu shopping and a simple way to say no to plastic bags.
3. Carry a reusable straw. Lightweight and easy to clean, it’s an effective way to ditch single-use straws.
4. Choose toiletries wisely. Opt for solid shampoos, conditioners, and soaps to reduce plastic packaging.
5. Refuse single-use plastics. Politely decline plastic cutlery, stirrers, and other unnecessary items.
6. Pack food in reusable containers. Good for picnics or long travel days when you might need a snack.
7. Choose accommodations that reduce, reuse, and recycle. Support businesses that prioritize sustainability.
8. Buy local products. They often have less packaging and a smaller carbon footprint.
9. Educate yourself and others: Stay informed about environmental issues. Share your knowledge and inspire others to reduce their plastic consumption.

On conserving energy and mitigating carbon footprint during travel

1. Travel light. The heavier your luggage, the more fuel is needed to transport it.
2. Conserve energy and water. Turn off lights and AC when not needed. Whenever you leave your room, remember to switch off all electrical appliances. Unplug electronics. Even when not in use, plugged devices can use ‘phantom’ energy. Take shorter showers. These efforts can significantly reduce water and energy usage.
3. Choose low-carbon transport. Opt for trains over planes where possible. Use public transportation when exploring places. Walk or cycle — these are zero-emission modes of transport and great ways to explore.
4. Eat local food. Imported food has a higher carbon footprint due to transportation. Plus, local cuisine is a big part of the travel experience!
5. Stay in eco-friendly accommodations. Look for places with energy-saving appliances or renewable energy sources and other sustainable practices.
6. Embrace responsible use of hotel laundry. Towels and linens don’t need to be changed daily.
7. Respect nature: Stick to trails, don’t litter, and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Photos by Topas Ecolodge

Finally, sustainable travel extends beyond environmental responsibility.

It’s also about respecting and supporting local cultures.

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, engage with the community, and support local businesses.

Whether it’s learning a few phrases in the local language, buying handmade souvenirs, or trying regional dishes, every small interaction enriches your travel experience and contributes to the local economy.

Remember, sustainable travel is not a destination but a journey of constant learning and conscious decision-making.

Amid the euphoria of exploring new places, let’s not forget our responsibility towards the planet. Every step we take, every choice we make, leaves a mark. Let’s strive to ensure that our love for travel doesn’t compromise the very world we’re so eager to explore.

In the end, we don’t just want to see the world; we want to safeguard it for future generations to experience and cherish, too.

Let’s make each step count!

Featured image by Cardamom Tented Camp

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