Leave No Trace: The 7 Principles of Responsible Hiking

Masha -

Attention, world! Ecotourism is an emerging trend in the travel industry, as tourists strive to preserve beautiful places around the globe. Environmentally conscious people are doing their part to protect nature by participating in eco-friendly tourism programs in various countries. However, more can be done! Use the following tips to make your vacation as eco-friendly as possible.

Book your trip:

  • Many hotels are becoming eco-friendly! When researching, look for eco-conscious hotels. Here are some questions you can ask:

       - Does the hotel actively recycle? In what ways does the hotel reduce consumption (e.g., energy-efficient lighting, eco-friendly energy sources, water-saving appliances)?

        - Public transportation is always better than your own car, but traveling by bus or train is best. If you travel by plane, choose a direct flight to reduce emissions.

  • Buy tickets online to avoid shipping costs and fees if tickets are lost.

Before you leave:

  • Unplug electrical appliances—even when switched off, they can consume up to 40 watts per hour.
  • Shut down your computers—don't leave them in sleep mode!
  • Pack an eco-friendly water bottle in your carry-on to avoid buying multiple plastic bottles. You can buy reusable bottles from companies like Sigg and Klean Kanteen.
  • Pack your own snacks so you don't have to resort to unhealthy, overpriced food at rest stops, airports, etc. I usually buy pre-packaged organic burritos, which I prepare as a meal on the go just before I leave. Other snacks that keep you full for a long time include granola, trail mix, and nuts.

At the Hotel

  • Instead of throwing your towel on the floor after showering, reuse it several times during your stay and inform the hotel management that you don't require a daily towel change. The same applies to changing the bed linens. This will reduce water consumption.
  • If you are in a warm location, turn off the air conditioning and open the windows.
  • Turn off the lights when you leave the room.
  • Recycle.
  • In some hotels, you can view your bill on the hotel TV. Use this option (if available) to save paper.

Travel and Sightseeing

  • Rent a hybrid car when sightseeing! This will save you money on gas and reduce emissions.
  • When traveling between places, take the train instead of flying.
  • Want to explore a specific area? Skip the tour bus and opt for a walking tour (remember to bring your sneakers!). Walking also gives you more opportunities to interact with locals and experience the culture.
  • Buy local products, but make sure they are animal-friendly and environmentally conscious.
  • As always, wait until you find a trash can before disposing of your waste.
  • Don't forget your reusable water bottle and digital camera!

Making a vacation truly eco-friendly requires conscious choices and proactive steps, from transportation selection to in-hotel habits. This commitment to sustainability mirrors the growing corporate responsibility towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors. Just as individuals strive to minimize their carbon footprint in travel, organizations must strive for efficiency and sustainability in their operations. While IceHrm focuses on managing the human capital side of the business, the underlying principle of conscious resource management is the same. By consistently making small, mindful decisions—like those regarding energy use, water consumption, and waste reduction—both travelers and businesses can collectively contribute to a healthier planet, ensuring that the beautiful places we visit today remain preserved for future generations.