Sustainability should permeate all areas of life if it is truly lived. But it's especially on vacation that even those who otherwise buy from organic farmers, avoid plastic, and don't drive sin. Tour operators know from experience: on vacation, customers want to have fun and take a break. Sometimes they even want to save the world. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that travel in particular causes considerable damage. And this applies not only to CO2 emissions.
Our holiday pleasure: where we “sin” the most
It's quite clear that air travel instantly burns away many of the lifestyle bonus points earned elsewhere. Airplanes emit so much CO2 that it's dizzying. And air travel is still so cheap, especially the popular city weekends at mini-prices, but also all-inclusive tours for little money in Africa, Asia, or the Caribbean. Such offers are indeed unsustainable. But would a cruise be a good idea? Again, no. Because the ocean giants harm the environment at least as much; no one can accurately monitor the amount of waste they dump in the ocean, and no one even wants to take a close look at the working conditions of the crew. And the example of Venice shows the consequences that the daily arrival of these large ships can have. Here, the enormous bow waves damage the foundations of the palazzi, and the swarms of tourists are increasingly driving native Venetians out of their own city.
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Are there alternatives – and how can you travel more sustainably?
There are indeed alternatives, and they're actually quite worthwhile. Because if you don't spend hours at the airport or get stuck in traffic, the fun of your vacation begins much sooner, and the relaxation is more lasting for the travelers. Basically, you don't have to travel far—quite the opposite.
Those who live in the city and simply stay home on vacation benefit from empty streets and parks and can often enjoy special vacation packages offered by local authorities, especially for families with children. But those who need a change of scenery have two options for traveling "green" – either by train or by carpooling. Train travel slows down the pace, and especially on long-distance trips, you can enjoy the journey rather than just the destination. Those who prefer a more relaxed approach can travel longer distances on a sleeper train. It doesn't cost any more than an overnight stay in a mid-range hotel!
And for those who enjoy socializing, sharing a ride with others is a way to drastically reduce CO2 emissions from driving and perhaps meet some nice travel companions along the way. Online platforms bring drivers and passengers together, ensuring that even longer distances can be covered at affordable prices.
Often underestimated is a mode of travel that was not uncommon until the 19th century – namely, on foot. In recent years, however, more and more people have discovered so-called pilgrimage routes. Particularly popular is the Way of St. James to Santiago di Compostela. You don't have to be particularly religious to do it. Traveling on foot helps you reflect on yourself, slow down a gear (or several), and become more mindful. Ways of St. James stretch throughout Europe. The first step often begins right on your doorstep. And you don't have to walk all the way to Santiago...
And what if you still want to go overseas?
Anyone who wants to travel to Africa or America will hardly be able to avoid flying. Experts recommend staying at least long enough to make the flight worthwhile – also from an ecological perspective – so at least two, preferably three weeks. It goes without saying that such a vacation can only be combined with a green conscience every few years.
But it’s not just about nature!
Sustainable travel should also consider the integrity of destinations and the lives of the people there. And here, too, travelers can do a lot. For example:
- Do not travel to countries where the human rights situation is questionable.
- Avoid crowded, “trendy” holiday resorts – you’ll get ripped off there anyway, and the influx of tourists isn’t good for the area.
- Travel outside of peak travel times if at all possible.
- Avoid staying in international hotel chains, but choose hotels or resorts run by local companies.
- Go on excursions and do shopping at local sources, eat at local restaurants.
- Use public transport even on vacation.
- Produce as little waste as possible while traveling.
In summary, you should travel in such a way that the people you're traveling with enjoy it as much as you enjoy the trip. And you can make a really big contribution to this with just a little effort!
Everyone can and should participate – NIKIN shows how
Although we at NIKIN primarily focus on sustainable materials in the fashion industry and combat global deforestation, it's important to think sustainably in other areas of life as well. We want to motivate people to rethink their lifestyles and, if possible, make them more sustainable.
It's summer vacation time, and despite the ongoing climate debates, many people are still traveling to the farthest corners of the world. We don't want to point the finger at vacationers, but instead point out alternatives to planes and cruise ships. Because traveling is wonderful and important. But you can plan your trip in such a way that you don't harm the environment or the people at your destination – and still have plenty of vacation fun!
