Green tourism is a phrase you may have heard banded about and are wondering what it really means. Well there’s not a strict definition as such, but overall green tourism is about being an environmentally friendly tourist or providing environmentally friendly tourist services.
With carbon emissions constantly in the headlines, the idea of green tourism from the point of view of how we get to our destinations may be something you are already thinking about. If your trip is within the UK you may be considering taking public transport, for example. Or if you are travelling abroad, you may be offsetting the carbon emissions of your flight. But, in addition, the idea of green tourism means you should be thinking about what happens when you get there. It is important to respect the environment not only where we live but in those places to which we travel, whether that be in the UK or further a field. Take a look at our sustainable tourism page for some tips relating in particular to travel abroad.
As well as considering the impact of the individual tourists on the local and global environment, green tourism should also cover the facilities and services on offer to tourists and how they can effect the environment. In the UK the Green Tourism Business Scheme awards businesses according to their ‘green’ credentials including areas such as energy, water and waste. As a consumer you can use their website to find accommodation, eateries and attractions which have been classified as gold, silver or bronze.
