Dear Recycling Bins: Eco-Tourism

Dear Recycling Bins: Our Weekly Recycling Advice Column

Welcome to our weekly advice column where we look at all things recycling and give you the answers you’re desperately seeking.

Dear Recycling Bins,

I love to travel but I’m concerned about the impact of my trips on the environment. I’m a frequent flyer, I always rent a car, and I’ll admit, I usually have the air con on full blast since I’m English and anything over 10 degrees brings me out in a sweat.

How can I have a more eco-friendly holiday while still enjoying the comforts of being in nice accommodation and doing fun activities?

Yours Sincerely,

Mr. Frequent Flyer

Dear Frequent Flyer,

Eco-tourism isn’t anything new, and while we all love a holiday, it’s important for us all to be mindful of our habits when we have a trip away. There are plenty of ways you can be more eco-conscious and still have an amazing trip away.

While you might have to fly depending on where you’re going, ditch the car rental and try walking, cycling, or using public transport when you reach your destination. You’ll see more of the sights this way than having your eyes fixed on the road! If you really must hire a car, try and choose the most eco-friendly option.

When it comes to food and drink, if you’re self-catering, buy your food from local markets and independent shops that don’t tend to use as much packaging as bigger supermarkets. The less distance the produce has travelled, the better it will taste and the better it is for the environment too. When you eat out, don’t use plastic straws and take a refillable water bottle with you wherever you go. Many businesses will let you fill your bottle for free.

When you’re out and about, keep an eye on the kids and make sure they don’t ditch their sweet wrappers and crisp packets on the ground once they’ve eaten them. Find a recycling bin or take the rubbish back to where you’re staying and dispose of it properly.

If you’re really serious about being eco-conscious when you’re away, especially if you’re having a ‘staycation,’ you can always see if there are any local beach cleans or litter picks going on. Of course, you can always carry out your own #2minutebeachclean.

Whatever positive action you take, no matter how small, don’t underestimate its impact. Try these simple tips for protecting the environment, whether you’re at home or away.

• Step away from the wet wipes: They wash up on beaches, don’t degrade, clog sewers, and contain plastic
• Don’t put fats or oils of any kind down drains or sinks
• Avoid single-use plastics like plastic cutlery, straws, and individually-wrapped snacks
• Use refillable water bottles or a flask when you’re out and about
• Never drop litter

I hope this has helped and that you inspire more people to become eco-conscious travellers!

Yours Sincerely,

Recycling Bins