How to choose sustainable travel options


Some tips on how to do more more good than harm to the planet



But travel can also be positive -- it can contribute to the viability of local communities, it can connect people to cultures around the world, and it can even open our eyes to where we can help the world the most.

So, is it possible to travel without damaging the world?

"Sustainability is possible," says

Simon Hudson, professor of tourism and marketing at the University of Calgary's Haskayne School of Business.

He cites Machu Picchu as an example, saying that officials there realized they couldn't open their doors to as many people as wanted to visit, because in the end what they had would be destroyed -- hence, the visitor limits.

"A lot of the time, sustainability is seen as being green and environmentally responsible," he says. "But for me, there's three elements to it: the environmental side but also the social side and the economic side."

This isn't being driven simply by the green movement, but by travellers themselves. He notes that tourists aren't comfortable visiting countries with troubled ethics, such as Myanmar.

"People are moving away towards experiences," he explains. "They are looking for more connection with communities and with people within those communities. It's a trend away from all-inclusive theme parks towards nature-based and educational tourism, and that can have a very positive impact on both the tourist and the community."


"Most of our trips are small-group adventures," says Ned Ambrus, manager of the Calgary G.A.P concept store. "It impacts the travellers because it provides a small and intimate cultural experience, but it also helps the environment because it allows us to use public transportation and to stay in local hotels or inns, or with families.



"It was founder Bruce Poon Tip's idea," explains Planeterra manager Danielle Weiss. "The whole idea of G.A.P is that we operate responsibly, and this is the way for us as a company and for our travellers to give back to the communities, to support them and help them meet their needs."


Closer to home, Bellstar's Spirit Ridge Resort and Vineyard (spiritridge.ca) in Osoyoos, B.C., has been designed with its surroundings in mind.

"Because of the desert environment, one of the biggest elements is water conservation," explains Bellstar



"The desert link-style golf course actually maintains the bulk of the course as natural habitat, the vineyards are using a drip irrigation system, and both Spirit Ridge and Nk'Mip Cellars try to buy as much local and organic produce as possible to decrease cost and environmental emissions."

Sustainable travel that makes a positive impact on the planet is possible -- as long as you choose wisely.

Checking off the essentials


- What's the operator's environmental policy?

- Are they a travel provider with good conservation ethics?


- Is the local economy benefiting financially from your trip?

- Will you be using public transportation on your trip?


- Does the travel provider focus on reducing, reusing and recycling?

- Are you prepared to immerse yourself in and accept cultures different from your own?

- Will the food be organically/ sustainably grown or produced locally?


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