What is Eco-Friendly or Sustainable Travel?
So, is this an oxymoron or what? How can air travel be environmentally friendly? Well, it's not! But does that mean we stop traveling? No, because many countries depend on tourism for survival. Ecotourism is defined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves interpretation and education". Responsible travel helps us learn about our world and benefits the local economies of our chosen destinations. According to the executive director of TIES, "Sustainable travel is all about creating a positive effect on the communities you visit." Each year, more and more travelers are seeking eco-friendly tours. And yet there is still a great need for education regarding what irresponsible tourism is doing to our environment.
This is why Kindred Women Travelers is committed to doing whatever we can to minimize our environmental footprint while traveling.