– Let's celebrate Earth Day by travelling more responsibly
Lately we hear a lot about Earth Day, but do you know what it is? When did it start? Surely, when you know a bit more about this important event you will want to contribute, but how can you do it as a traveller?
When we travel, we often feel that we would like to make a more positive impact but don’t know how to do so or think it is too difficult. If you've been thinking about it but you don't know where to start, today we bring you some recommendations to make your trip more sustainable in a simple way.
What better day to acquire new sustainable habits than Earth Day? Let's get started!
What is Earth Day?
Earth Day is an annual occasion to promote environmental protection held on April 22. Founded in the United States by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970, it went global in 1990 and is now celebrated all over the world. The first event was organised by Nelson with the help of Denis Hayes as coordinator, and this first mobilisation contributed to raising awareness of environmental issues and the establishment of new laws to address them. In 1990, Earth Day mobilised 200 million people in 141 countries around these common values, and now is already followed by more than a billion people.
Why is Earth Day important?
Because it is a good way to join forces on the road to a more sustainable future for us and for future generations. The United Nations states that international days are “a powerful advocacy tool [that] promotes international awareness and action”. For us, travellers who are committed to sustainable tourism, this is a wonderful opportunity to resolve to travel more responsibly.
How is Earth Day celebrated?
Earth Day is celebrated with events organised around the globe and coordinated by EARTHDAY.ORG, the Earth Day Network. In 2023, almost 30 of these events will take place in Japan. The event focuses on a different theme each year, and the Earth Day Network has set the official theme for 2023 to be "Invest in Our Planet".
In some places, this celebration extends to a week or even a month, with activities and events taking place beyond the 22nd. In Japan, for example, we celebrate the Earth Day festival at Yoyogi Park every year in Tokyo, from 15th to 16th April. The perfect place to find your sustainable and eco-responsible travel accessories!
Invest in Our Planet while travelling
Wondering how you as a traveller can contribute? Good news! You can travel and invest in our planet at the same time!
When it comes to travel, there are ways to commit to the well-being of nature, people and culture that we can easily include in our travel routines. As individual travellers we have the opportunity to make sustainable choices, not only on Earth Day but throughout our travels.
Check out these top 6 resolutions and get inspired!
TOP 6 RESOLUTIONS
Resolution #1: In nature, don't step out of bounds
Contribute to protect the environment and restore nature by not harming the flora and disturbing the local fauna. Be quiet and don’t leave waste - you can carry a recyclable bag in your backpack to store your waste until the end of your hike or activity!
Resolution #2: Take time
Travel slower and walk more. A breath of fresh air is a luxury that we often cannot afford in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and travelling is an ideal time for it. Not only is it healthy for the planet, but also for you! As claimed by Harvard Medical School, walking entails health benefits such as boosting immune function.
Resolution #3: Switch off
Reduce electricity use by unpluging devices at home before departure and in your accommodation during the trip. Use rechargeable batteries or solar-powered accessories to reduce electricity consumption.
Resolution #4: Go local
Eat, drink and shop locally. You will be supporting the local economy and community. You will also help to preserve local culture and environmental protection by reducing transport distances.
Resolution #5: Use biodegradable sunscreen
And other eco-friendly accessories! When preparing your luggage, prioritise eco-responsible elements, such as bamboo toothbrush or soap bar. This is not only important if you travel to the coast, helping to reduce ocean pollution and marine biodiversity (as it is well known that the chemicals in sun creams damage coral reefs). It is also useful if you travel to the mountains, as you will benefit freshwater species. Reduce, reuse and recycle: that’s a good way to protect the ecosystem.
Resolution #6: Listen
When you get to know the local community, be respectful of their traditions and listen to them. It is a good opportunity and a big fortune to learn about the customs and habits of the people and the country that welcomes us.
Travelling and take action
All of us can be involved in the conservation of the earth's natural resources while travelling. Even better, these commitments are not only good for the planet, but also for us. It is a healthy way to travel, taking time for oneself and acting with awareness of the environment and the people around us.
Enjoy the journey even more with these small choices that can generate a better impact. Start today and be a part of the green revolution!
We want to know more about you! Which of these resolutions speaks to you the most? Let us know in the comments!
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