Transform the negative environmental and social impacts of fashion by forming a sustainable fashion brand company. Here are some of our best tips to get started in the world of sustainable fashion.

5 Ideas to Become a Sustainable Fashion Brand Company

Do you want to make your designs come to life by creating your own fashion brand company and advertising the importance of sustainable clothing? Good news – the fashion industry’s current lack of sustainable practices and next to no truly sustainable brand for clothes make it the perfect time to jump into the clothing industry. 

Two of the biggest issues to tackle include the carbon dioxide emissions and the waste created by the production practices in the fashion industry – both of which have accelerated in recent years. The system is highly inefficient, however, for lack of a better word – broken. 

💡 However, there’s beauty in turning trash into treasure – as sustainable fashion offers incredibly relevant challenges for our time and plenty of room to innovate. 

In this article, we'll provide a few tips to help you get you started on your journey to become a sustainable fashion brand company.

The fashion industry we know today is symptomatic of globalization, e-commerce, and fast-changing trends, thanks to social media. Consumers keep their style up-to-date with the click of a button. 

💡 However, this endless stream of disposable fashion has immense consequences our environmental footprint – as a lack of fair labor practices or ethical supply chains both make fashion production less than optimal for the planet.

Let’s first step back to understand the underlying framework that the fashion industry relies on to produce and sell garments.

Before clothing from a fashion brand company reaches our closets, it passes through hundreds of hands to get there. Production begins with raw materials which are usually grown in agricultural fields for natural fibers or synthesized from fossil fuel feedstocks for synthetic fibers like polyester. 

👉 These raw materials are transformed into textiles and trimmings that designers use as the building blocks of their designs. Fashion brands must source their materials wisely to keep costs down, which in turn – ethical or sustainable sourcing can also lead to more sustainable fashion. 

Fashion companies create designs and sewing specs for their products to mass produce them in factories. Once the textiles are manufactured into garments, they are then shipped to warehouses or retail outlets to be sold. 

To sell these garments, fashion companies in the fashion sector need to have strong branding to reach and engage their target market. They may undergo intense market research to establish the right price point, placement, and strategic marketing for their products in order to sell enough to earn revenue.  

All of these steps, from fair labor standards, eco-friendly practices, to clothing production come together to form the fashion industry as we know it.

To understand the massive scope of the fashion industry’s global impact, let’s take a look at some key figures: 

The market size of the global fashion industry totals to $3 trillion in the U.S. and 2% of the world’s GDP

Fashion industry revenues in 2021 were US $1.55 trillion. 

A total of 3.3 million employees work in the fashion industry. 

💡 The highest earning fashion companies are French luxury conglomerate Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH), Nike, and Inditex (which owns Zara, Pull&Bear, and Stradivarius among other brands). 

As the revenue for the textile industry amounts to over $358 billion USD, with an expected annual growth rate of 2.82% – the need for clothing brands to tackle sustainable production and produce clothing aligned with the ideals of ethical fashion has never been more important. 

👉 Remember, China exports more apparel than any other country, while the US is the largest apparel market in the world. Estimates show that the total number of garments produced each year has doubled since 2000 and this trend shows no sign of slowing. 

The fashion industry’s impact on the environment

Although the fashion industry helps to boost our global economy, there are hidden costs to the fashion system – such as how it depletes through natural resources, exacerbates climate change, harms wildlife, and impacts our health. 

💡 The fashion industry contributes to climate change more than flights or shipping, as estimates suggest that it is responsible for 10% of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions each year.

In fact, over 90% of a fashion brand’s total carbon footprint can come from indirect sources. This, coupled with a complex supply chain, makes it difficult to pinpoint the exact sources of emissions. – (CarbonFact).

As climate change intensifies, experts say it is critical to rethink how we produce clothing.

#News #ClimateChange #Fashion

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The environmental cost of fast fashion

What causes the excess emissions created by the fashion industry?

The because fashion has become more dependent on polyester (plastic) fibers than the cotton industry or other natural fibers or recycled fabrics. As a whole, PET plastic clothing often comes from reused plastics, such as recycled plastic bottles – but the impact of these garments remain substantial. These synthetic fibers are made from fossil fuel feedstocks, and they require three times the amount of energy (282 billion tons of carbon dioxide) to produce than cotton. 

💡 A fifth of all plastic produced each year, about 60 million tons, is used by the fashion industry. This amount is expected to increase as oil companies compensate for declining demand for gas used in transportation.  

The main problem with fast fashion is that we cannot afford to shift this fossil fuel burning burden from one industry (transportation) to the next (plastics and fashion). Therefore, it's time for industries across the board to lower their GHG emissions to avoid the disastrous consequences of climate change. 

Odds are that your fashion brand company creates waste. 

👉 In the US, 11.3 million tons of textiles get disposed of each year. This equals 2150 garments per second! 

Some of this waste comes from consumer behavior: people wear garments an average of 7 to 10 times before discarding them. A study in the UK found that a third of clothing buyers will discard an item after wearing it once or twice, which explains the recent uptick in thrift shopping and secondhand clothing. 

After clothing is discarded, it faces one of three possible outcomes: being thrown in the landfill, incineration, or recycling. However, the amount of materials recycled (around 15%) is minimal compared to the 11.3 million tonnes (around 85%) which gets thrown in landfills in the US.

A fashion brand company is often subject to overproduction. 

Consumers aren’t the only ones contributing to the waste problem. Fashion brands also landfill or burn unsold stock, and these practices often take place in developing countries without high air quality standards or proper waste disposal infrastructure. 

How much unsold stock is there? In 2018, fast fashion giant H&M reported it had amassed $4.3 billion worth of items that it could not sell.  Overproduction is as much a part of the problem as overconsumption. 

A fashion brand company is bound to have an impact on health and wildlife.

The amount of unsold stock is often alarming, an in turn – big name brands will often resort to throwing these clothes away in landfills. For example, in 2018, fast fashion giant H&M reported it had amassed $4.3 billion worth of items that it could not sell. 

👉 Therefore, overproduction is as much a part of the problem as excess consumption patterns – as local industries often value excess consumerism over slow fashion or implementing long-term sustainability initiatives to support the current climate crisis.

This is because once synthetic fibers reach the environment, they release microplastics into our water, soil, and eventually our bloodstreams. A study recently detected microplastics in human bloodstreams for the first time. 

While the full health consequences of microplastics are still unknown, some plastics are linked to health risks as diverse as cancer, endocrine disruption, birth defects, impaired immunity, and developmental and reproductive difficulties. 

Scientists have traced the 71% of microplastics sampled in river water and 35% of the microplastics in oceans to clothing fibers. This means textiles contribute more than any other type of plastic material to ocean microplastic pollution, where it impacts marine life as well. 

The table below will further breakdown the impact that the fast fashion industry has on all of these areas: 

<table border="1">
  <tr>
    <th>Impact Area</th>
    <th>Description</th>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Plastic Pollution</td>
    <td>Fast fashion relies heavily on synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic, which shed microplastics during washing. These microplastics accumulate in oceans and ecosystems, posing threats to marine life and entering the food chain.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Ocean Pollution</td>
    <td>Textile dyeing and production release toxic chemicals and dyes into water bodies, contaminating drinking water sources and harming aquatic organisms. Runoff from factories often leads to high levels of water pollution.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Waste Production</td>
    <td>Millions of tons of clothing end up in landfills every year due to the disposable nature of fast fashion. Non-biodegradable fabrics contribute to landfill overflow, taking decades to decompose and releasing greenhouse gases.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Wildlife</td>
    <td>Deforestation for raw material production, pollution from textile chemicals, and microplastic ingestion harm wildlife habitats, disrupt ecosystems, and pose serious health risks to animals.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Excess Consumerism</td>
    <td>Fast fashion promotes a culture of overconsumption, leading to short-lived trends, increased demand for cheap clothing, and unsustainable production cycles that strain natural resources and energy.</td>
  </tr>
</table>


👉 All of these environmental impacts reflect a vicious cycle in which clothing manufacturers encourage the fast turnover of trends, mitigating the value of zero waste, sustainable production methods, or working towards net zero emissions. This allows them to continue selling vast amounts of disposable clothing to increase their revenue as opposed to promoting the value in a sustainable wardrobe, encouraging consumers buy into this “fast fashion” system.  

As bleak as the challenges of the fashion industry may seem, there is an alternative: sustainable fashion. 

Sustainable fashion is a broad term that generally aligns with the definition of sustainable development outlined in the 1987 Bruntland Commission Our Common Future report: meaning that it should meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.  

In practice, this may seem somewhat vague, so The Centre for Sustainable Fashion lists a number of principles to sustainable fashion in its glossary. Key themes within sustainable fashion are: 

Business accountability – This broad phrase covers issues as diverse as transparent supply chains to disclosing executive pay. Create a CSR strategy to get started. 

Declaring a climate emergency – Pursuing carbon dioxide emissions reduction strategies in line with science. 

UN Sustainable Development Goals – A total of 17 global goals address the social and environmental impacts of development including poverty, gender inequality, resource use, biodiversity, and other. 

Fair Trade – Eliminating modern slavery from supply chains and ensuring fair wages and pay for workers. 

DEI – Fashion diversity, equity and inclusion in marketing, selection of models, sizing offers, designs, and other elements of the industry. 

Circular economy – Since most fashion business models follow a linear economy that centers on products whose value quickly depreciates, alternate models such as second hand clothing sales or circular fashion might focus on clothing rentals, clothing repairs, the use of natural materials, a leather alternative, or life cycle assessments to design new clothing for reuse or recycling. 

Limiting growth – Examples include minimal fashion, designing high-quality products for long-term use in classic styles, and promoting repeat wears in branding and advertising materials.

Which consumers are looking for sustainable fashion?

The good news is people have never been more passionate about sustainable fashion, especially younger consumers. 

💡 A global survey of 10,000 Gen Z and Millennial consumers showed that 65% worry about the environment, 80% want to buy mostly sustainable products, and 40% believe the fashion industry is unsustainable. 

Fair Fashion ambassador Marina Spadafora invites us to rethink fashion as a driver for human development and the important role of the fashion industry and consumer preference in sustainability, human development and growth.  A Fair Fashion ambassador around the world, Marina has deep roots in Fashion having had her own brand and collaborated with Ferragamo, Prada, Miu Miu and Marni and Aspesi.

She has been the creative director of Auteurs du Monde, the Fair Trade brand of Altromercato, working with artisans all over the world.
Marina is a professor of ethical fashion at prestigious academies in Italy and abroad.

Her work has always included a strong focus on social issues and ecology, believing that ethics and aesthetics can coincide. Her motto is "Fashion with a Mission".

She works to bring development to emerging countries through her FWAM, Fashion with a Mission, platform.

She is also the Italian national coordinator of Fashion Revolution.

She received the United Nations Women Together Award in 2015 in New York and has given TEDx talks on sustainable fashion in 2014 and in 2021.

In 2020 she wrote the book “The revolution starts from your wardrobe” with Luisa Ciuni published by Solferino Libri. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx

Sustainable Fashion: The New Luxury | Marina Spadafora | TEDxLaRomana

5 tips to become a sustainable fashion brand company

Here are some things to consider when starting a fashion brand company.  

To break the mold in fashion, you’ll first need to understand how the fashion system works. Gaining industry experience is one of the best ways to start to understand the complexities of the fashion industry. Otherwise, you could make costly mistakes. 

There are numerous ways to expand your knowledge: such as by earning a degree in fashion, working for a fashion brand, networking by joining industry groups, attending fashion shows and conferences, and reading trade publications. 

Ultimately, fashion is a business, so bringing transferable skills related to entrepreneurship such as business strategy, market research, team-building, and raising funds will all help you establish the basis to pursue your fashion brand. 

From the outset, establishing a sustainability mission for a new company will help establish the guidelines for operating a sustainable business. 

💡 Two of the key elements in sustainable fashion are ethical production and sustainable materials sourcing.

Identifying suppliers which meet your code of ethics is crucial to building a sustainable fashion brand company. This can take a lot of research as you compare the many variables. For instance travel distance adds a greater CO2 burden, while local suppliers sometimes cost more, but benefit your community.

Finding the right strategic balance and mission alignment is key.

Choosing eco-friendly materials is important for sustainable fashion brand companies. Whether this means selecting organic, biodegradable natural fibers or recycled synthetics, remember to consider not just the end of life of the product itself, but the energy and labor required to produce it. 

A wide range of co-friendly materials are available such as linen, Tencel, bamboo, certified organic cotton, or pineapple leather. You can easily compare their attributes on websites like Good On You. 

Sometimes eco-friendly materials are sourced from the waste stream itself. This includes deadstock (unused) fabrics, or recycled materials. 

Choosing eco-friendly packaging is another important detail to consider.

After you have a sense of the type of materials you hope to use and where to get them, it’s time to identify your ideal buyer. Their desires, lifestyle, and habits will largely inspire and influence your branding approach. 

This includes everything from your visual imagery to fonts, logos, and website design. Each element of your branding should express a consistent, unique approach to fashion that will pique the interest of your market. 

The more specific your buyer persona, the more influential your branding will become. This is because each brand has a personality as unique as an individual. Create mood boards, catchy phrases for copy, and find real people who reflect this buyer persona. 

Finally, it’s time to make designs. This requires unique technical skills: pattern making, garment construction, and prototyping. If you lack these skills, you can either learn, or hire people with the right knowledge to bring your vision to life. 

💡 Once you’ve tested your patterns and created mock-ups, you can send them to a factory, where your garments can be mass produced. Factories require spec sheets from designers which dictate the specific construction details of a design for accurate replication.

Launching a label is so much more than stocking inventory. You’ll need to set up a website, social media accounts, photograph your designs, and a promotional strategy to get the word out about the fashion label. 

New fashion brands often start generating interest months in advance of their actual launch. Therefore, it's wise to to build a mailing list, find press opportunities, and take pre-orders before your brand stocks anything to sell.

👉 Using all of these platforms to communicate the sustainable mission of the fashion brand company is a must if you want to find long-term success in the sustainable fashion industry.

If reading this article about the steps to become a sustainable fashion brand have inspired you to take more actions aligned with sustainability– you've found the right place!

Greenly supports businesses of all sizes to reduce carbon emissions with a process that makes carbon accounting  an integral, but simple part of doing business. Our digital platform  helps business owners assess which business activities create the most  pollution. We’ll help you tackle them with an action plan. 

Tourism can cause some negative impacts on the environment. But how can we still have fun traveling while respecting the environment in 2025?

Eco-responsible travel: our guide for 2025

The tourism industry is set to reach pre-pandemic heights in 2024, which is great news for businesses and those who work within the sector, however, it’s not such good news when it comes to the environment. Accounting for approximately 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the tourism sector is exacerbating climate change. Additionally, cheaper flights and ease of travel mean that mass tourism is placing undue pressure on local ecosystems and communities.

With global warming an increasing problem across the globe, and even threatening some of the destinations that tourists flock to, this has us wondering: Can eco-responsible travel help mitigate the environmental footprint of tourism?

👉 In this article we explore the environmental effects of mass tourism, and how eco-responsible travel can help to lessen some of the damaging impacts.

Mass tourism, also known as over-tourism, is referred to as “the movement of a large number of organized tourists to popular holiday destinations for recreational purposes”. Often associated with the traditional holiday package, it describes the use of standardized travel products and mass consumption that is typically associated with other sectors, such as the fashion industry. Despite the relatively minor impact of tourists on an individual level, when it comes to mass tourism it is the sheer volume of visitors in popular destinations that results in a negative impact on the environment.

💡 Did you know? 95% of the world's tourists flock to just 5% of its land area. This places a huge strain on a select number of popular tourist locations. 

The root of this mass tourism can be traced back to the democratization of travel, boosted by more affordable transport and cheaper resort accommodation. The growth within the travel sector has risen steadily since the 1950s, generating huge revenues and providing jobs in many countries and communities. According to Statista the number of international tourist arrivals in 2023 totalled just under 1.3 billion, not too far off the peak of over 1.4 billion tourists in 2019. 

And while this might be good news for the economy, with tourism receipts reaching USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, this form of travel can unfortunately have a negative impact on local communities, environments, and historical sites. Less desirable impacts of mass tourism include: 

Increased consumption of water, raw materials, and food products

Mass tourism exerts enormous pressure on local resources. In many popular destinations, the influx of tourists leads to a significant spike in water usage, often in areas where water is already a scarce commodity. This increased demand can lead to water shortages for local communities. Additionally, the need for construction materials to build hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities often leads to overexploitation of natural resources. The food industry, too, faces a surge in demand, which can result in overfishing and other unsustainable practices to cater to the varied tastes of international tourists.

The carbon footprint of mass tourism is substantial. Air travel, one of the primary modes of transport for international tourists, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the energy consumption of large hotels and resorts, often powered by fossil fuels, adds to the environmental impact. Recreational activities, such as cruises and leisure flights, further exacerbate these emissions, significantly contributing to global climate change and also increasing air pollution.

The local economy in popular tourist destinations often gets skewed towards tourism. This can lead to inflated property values and rent, making housing unaffordable for local residents. Similarly, as businesses cater more to tourists, food prices can rise, driven by increased demand and the introduction of products tailored to tourist preferences. This economic shift can make a living in tourism-centric areas prohibitively expensive for locals.

Degradation of natural and cultural heritage

Tourism can lead to a variety of environmental problems including the physical degradation of natural sites due to overuse and lack of proper maintenance. Sensitive ecosystems, like coral reefs and mountain trails, are particularly vulnerable. Cultural heritage sites also suffer from over-tourism, with historical landmarks and monuments facing wear and tear from excessive foot traffic. Additionally, the commercialization of cultural practices and artifacts can dilute their authenticity and significance, leading to a loss of cultural heritage.

The situation has escalated to the point where the experience of vacationing is often marred by excessive crowds and noise. While tourism generates economic benefits, some destinations are becoming increasingly un-liveable and less appealing to both residents and visitors.

👉 Learn more about the impacts of tourism on the environment in our article. 

Tourism has surged in recent decades, causing large-scale environmental degradation, dangerous conditions, and pricing-out locals at major tourist sites. In this episode of The Idea File, Atlantic staff writer Annie Lowrey explains over-tourism and what we can do to fix it. 

Watch previous episodes of the Idea File series here:   

 • Millennials Are Sick of Drinking  

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Too Many People Want to Travel

Sustainable tourism on the other hand is the antithesis to mass tourism. It's an approach that integrates the principles of sustainable development to travel. The World Tourism Organization (WTO) defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”.  

Economic sustainability - Ensuring that tourism contributes positively to the economic well-being of host destinations while ensuring fair distribution of benefits among all stakeholders.

Social sustainability - Focusing on the well-being of local communities, respecting their cultures and traditions, and ensuring that tourism does not lead to social displacement or exploitation.

Environmental sustainability - Minimising the ecological footprint of tourism activities, conserving natural resources, and promoting the preservation of biodiversity and natural habitats.

A key aspect of sustainable tourism is the active role played by tourists. It calls for travelers to be conscious of their impact and to make choices that support the sustainability of the destinations they visit. This involves understanding the social and environmental consequences of their travel and actively seeking to reduce negative impacts.

Most people understand that if we want to continue with traveling we need to embrace sustainable travel to minimize our impact on the environment, support local communities, and preserve natural and cultural resources.

Here is a short and effective video about this topic. #travel #sustainabletravel #ecotourism #sustainability #tourismindustry #travel

What is sustainable travel, and why it is important. Explained in two minutes

Mass tourism is becoming an increasingly big concern for many tourist locations around the world. These destinations, while benefiting economically, are facing severe environmental and cultural threats that are also exacerbated by global warming. 

Not only is this having a negative effect on the local populations within the impacted areas, but it’s also negatively impacting the experience of visitors to such locations. Let’s take a closer look at some of the world's most iconic tourist destinations that are suffering under the pressures of mass tourism: 

Tulum's transformation from a hidden gem to a major tourist hotspot is a textbook example of the double-edged sword of mass tourism. The influx of millions annually, drawn by its pristine beaches, clear waters, and Mayan ruins, has led to significant environmental and infrastructural strains, for example: 

Rapid urbanization has led to the destruction of vital forests and mangroves

Overwhelmed wastewater systems are causing pollution, affecting both the underground water table and the Caribbean Sea

The construction boom, including hotels and roads, has dramatically altered the natural landscape

The spread of open-air dumps poses serious environmental and health hazards

Growth has seen Tulum's population triple in less than a decade, raising concerns about its future sustainability

Venice is another world-famous tourist location that is struggling with mass tourism. The influx of huge visitor numbers, including large cruise ships entering the lagoon highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and accommodating the needs of its tourist-driven economy. The daily influx of tourists, outnumbering the local population, has prompted the city to implement significant measures in an effort to counter the effects of mass tourism, including:

A ban on large boats to protect the historic center’s foundations

Restrictions on new souvenir shops to maintain local culture

An entrance fee for day-trippers to manage visitor numbers and promote off-season tourism

It’s hoped that these measures will help safeguard Venice's status as a World Heritage site and ensure its viability for future generations.

Santorini, famed for its stunning sunsets and unique architecture, is another victim of its own success. The island, particularly during the peak summer months, struggles under the weight of tourist demand:

The infrastructure of the small island is stretched to its limits, struggling to accommodate the sheer number of visitors

Local resources, such as water and energy, are under immense pressure, leading to sustainability concerns

The charm and tranquillity that draw people to Santorini are at risk, as overcrowding and noise pollution increase

Measures to control the flow of tourists, especially from cruise ships, are being considered to preserve the island's unique character and environment

Like Tulum and Venice, Santorini's experience underscores the urgent need for a sustainable approach to tourism. Balancing economic benefits with environmental preservation and local community well-being is essential for the survival of these destinations.

👉 Discover how climate change is impacting your favorite holiday destinations in our article. 

Tourism has grown exponentially over the past few decades, but what effect is it having on some of the world's most beautiful cities? We break down four major ways cities are being impacted by mass tourism.
#MassTourism #Tourism

How mass tourism is destroying cities

‍‍How to travel eco-responsibly in 2024

Traveling, by its very nature, has an environmental impact, but it's possible to significantly reduce this footprint. The focus isn't on stopping tourism altogether but on embracing a more mindful and sustainable way of traveling.

Upholding the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

The Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), sets out a series of principles aimed at minimizing tourism's negative impacts on the environment and cultural heritage. This framework, adopted in 1999, encourages responsible and sustainable tourism development worldwide. It is a non-binding set of guidelines comprising ten core principles, which emphasize:

Fostering mutual respect - Tourism should promote understanding and respect among different cultures and societies

Encouraging fulfillment - Travel should serve as a means for individual and collective fulfillment

Sustainable development - Tourism must be a driving force for sustainable development

Preserving cultural heritage - Tourism should respect and contribute to the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage.

Benefiting local communities - Host countries and communities should benefit from tourism activities

Stakeholder responsibilities - All parties involved in tourism development must uphold their respective obligations

Right to tourism - Everyone has the right to access tourism experiences

Freedom of movement - Tourists should have the liberty to move freely, provided they respect local regulations and customs.

Workers' Rights - The rights of workers and entrepreneurs in the tourism industry must be protected.

Implementing ethical principles - The principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism should be actively implemented and promoted

Adapting to current trends and challenges

As we move through 2024, the principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism are more relevant than ever. The tourism industry faces new challenges, such as adapting to post-pandemic travel norms, addressing climate change more aggressively, and ensuring that technological advancements in travel remain aligned with ethical and sustainable practices.

Travelers, industry professionals, and policymakers must work together to adapt these principles to the current landscape, ensuring that tourism continues to be a force for good, contributing positively to both the planet and its inhabitants. 

In the next section, we outline some of the steps that you can take on an individual level to support eco-tourism and minimize the negative impact of your travel.

Ecotourism was a concept developed in the 70's and 80's as a way to use tourism to encourage conservation and promote the well-being of local communities. Though ecotourism is intended to be a more environmentally friendly alternative, in practice it's not as straightforward. Studies show that in some cases, ecotourism efforts can flop. These failures are often the result of areas that attract too many tourists, and in some cases based on a lack of "charismatic" animal species. In this episode of Mongabay Explains, we look at what makes an ecotourism project a success, and when that can turn into a failure.

Read more: https://news.mongabay.com/2018/12/fro...

#mongabay #ecotourism #biodiversity #wildlife #conservation

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Is ecotourism better for the environment? | Mongabay Explains

Embracing off-the-beaten-path destinations in 2024

The world is filled with hidden gems beyond the usual capital cities and famed tourist spots. Why limit your travels when there are countless lesser-known locations offering unique experiences, cultural richness, and tranquillity? Venturing into these less crowded areas not only offers an escape from the hustle and bustle but also allows you to discover authentic local experiences and contribute to the economies of places that don’t typically benefit from tourism money.

Timing your visit to popular destinations

For those who still wish to visit more popular destinations, why not consider travelling during the off-season? Imagine wandering through the streets of a usually packed city or exploring famous landmarks without the usual throngs of tourists. Off-season travel can provide a more peaceful experience, allowing for a deeper connection with the place and its people.

As we move through 2024, sustainable tourism increasingly emphasises the concept of 'slow travel.' This approach involves traveling less frequently but staying longer at each destination. It’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, environment, and community, rather than hopping quickly from one tourist spot to another. Slow travel allows for a more meaningful and enriching experience, giving travelers the opportunity to truly absorb and appreciate the nuances of different cultures and places - while also reducing carbon emissions!

💡 By adopting these practices, travelers in 2024 can contribute to a more sustainable and responsible tourism culture and one that values the quality of experience over the quantity of destinations.

Travel is one of the best things in the world, yet some aspects of travel aren't sustainable or are wasteful.  This travel tips video shares 12 easy life hacks for sustainable travel.  

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12 Tips For Sustainable Travel

Opting for eco-certified accommodation in 2024

The environmental impact of your travel accommodation can be significant, which is why choosing eco-certified accommodation is a key step in traveling sustainably. Moving away from large hotel chains, travelers now have the opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to its preservation by staying in establishments that prioritize environmental responsibility. These accommodations should adhere to strict standards, focusing on several critical areas:

Emphasis is placed on prioritizing energy efficiency to maintain ideal temperatures while minimizing energy consumption. This might include adopting eco-friendly energy solutions like heat pumps or solar panels or using an electricity plan that utilizes renewable sources.

Commitment to using locally sourced, organic products alongside environmentally friendly textiles helps significantly in cutting down on textile waste.

Incorporation of systems designed to lower both water and energy usage, such as through the utilization of energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs.

Implementation of robust waste reduction and recycling strategies coupled with appropriate disposal practices to ensure environmental responsibility.

Focus on construction techniques that are designed to reduce environmental impact and engage local communities, demonstrating a commitment to ecological sustainability and community involvement.

In 2024, there are a number of prominent eco-certification labels that travelers can look for to ensure that their accommodation selection is sustainable:

The European Ecolabel - Recognised across Europe, this label signifies high environmental standards

The Green Key - An international standard of excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation

The Green Globe - A global certification for sustainable tourism

❗Choosing a labeled establishment, however, doesn't absolve guests of personal responsibility. There are a number of other sustainability considerations that you should also take into account. For example, tourists can enhance their eco-friendly impact and reduce the energy consumed by:

Practice energy conservation by turning off lights when leaving a room

💡 For a truly unique experience, why not consider staying in an eco-lodge? These accommodations are designed with minimal environmental impact, and constructed to blend harmoniously with nature. Ecolodges not only protect the surrounding environment but also involve local communities, offering tourists an immersive and eco-conscious experience.

Transportation is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with 75% of the sector's greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, to align with eco-responsible travel goals, it's crucial to consider more sustainable modes of transportation.

While airplanes are often the fastest way to travel long distances, they are also among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the tourism sector. This is why reducing reliance on air travel is a key step towards sustainable tourism. 

For longer distances, trains have emerged as a favored option for eco-conscious travelers. They offer a more environmentally friendly alternative, significantly reducing the carbon footprint per passenger compared to flights.

While it might not always be possible to avoid flying, usually once you reach your destination the choices for green transportation become more accessible:

Cycling - An excellent way to explore while staying active and minimizing emissions.

Walking - Ideal for short distances and immersing oneself in the local environment.

Public transportation - Buses, subways, and trams are efficient and reduce the per-person environmental impact when compared to taking a taxi.

Carpooling - A viable option for reducing the number of vehicles on the road, especially in areas where public transport is limited. Electric vehicles are also helping to make this even more eco-responsible.


Sustainable travel is often economical too

Governments and local authorities are increasingly recognizing the importance of promoting sustainable transportation. Many countries and regions have introduced affordable public transport passes to encourage tourists and locals alike to opt for greener travel options. These initiatives not only make sustainable travel more accessible but also significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.

👉 Discover why the transportation industry is so harmful to the environment in our blog. 

What does it mean to travel sustainably, ethically, or responsibly? And how do travelers and travel businesses attempt to minimize their negative environmental impact? Let’s explore the green tourism trend in this video.

00:00 Intro
03:48 Environmental sustainability
06:12 Economic sustainability
08:22 Social sustainability in travel

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Sources:
[1] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe...
[2] https://www.iata.org/en/pressroom/spe...
[3] https://etc-corporate.org/uploads/202...
[4] https://qz.com/1724042/the-countries-...
[5] https://news.booking.com/download/103...
[6] https://www.iea.org/commentaries/are-...
[7] https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20...
[8] https://www.boeing.com/resources/boei...
[9] https://www.iata.org/en/programs/envi...
[10] https://www.sustainability.booking.co...
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#sustainabletourism #sustainabletravel #greentravel #greentourism

Green Travel and Sustainable Travel Practices

One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the culinary experiences that it offers. In 2024, the emphasis on consuming local products remains a vital part of sustainable tourism. When you indulge in local specialties, you're not just treating your taste buds you're also playing a role in preserving and supporting:

Culinary traditions - Choosing small, local eateries over international chains helps maintain culinary diversity, reduce food waste, and supports small business owners

The environment - Opting for fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.


Bringing home souvenirs is a timeless tradition of travel. In the context of sustainable tourism, selecting artisanal products is a way to contribute positively to the local economy. These items, handcrafted by local artists, are not only unique but also offer an insight into the region's cultural heritage. 

❗ In 2024, it’s increasingly important to be discerning about the origins of the souvenirs you choose. Always check the labels to ensure that the products are genuinely made in the region you are visiting. Avoid souvenirs that are misleadingly tagged with the location's name but are actually produced elsewhere, like the common ‘Made in China’ items found in many tourist destinations.

By consciously choosing to consume local products and souvenirs, travelers contribute to a more sustainable and equitable tourism model. This approach helps preserve local cultures, supports small businesses, and reduces environmental impact, making it a win-win for both the traveler and the host community.

In the spirit of eco-responsible travel, one of the key objectives in 2024 is to explore destinations without leaving a detrimental ecological impact. This approach involves blending seamlessly into new environments, absorbing cultures, and appreciating landscapes without contributing to their degradation.

Responsible waste management is a crucial aspect of this approach. It's essential to avoid littering in nature or public spaces. The practice of carrying your waste until you can dispose of it properly is not just respectful but necessary to preserve the beauty and cleanliness of the places you visit.

Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly adopting the use of durable and reusable items, actionable tips include: 

Water bottles and coffee cups - Use reusable water bottles and coffee cups instead of disposable ones. This not only reduces plastic waste but also encourages the consumption of local water and beverages, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting bottled drinks.

Eco-friendly travel gear - Choose travel gear made from sustainable materials by sustainable brands. This includes backpacks, luggage, and clothing made from recycled or organic materials, which reduces the demand for new resources and supports a circular economy.

Solar-powered devices - Use solar-powered chargers and gadgets to charge electronic devices reduce energy demand and limit greenhouse gases. These devices harness renewable energy, reducing the reliance on electricity generated from fossil fuels when traveling.

Solid toiletries - Switch to solid toiletries like shampoo bars, soap bars, and toothpaste tablets. These products often come in minimal or biodegradable packaging and are more lightweight and travel-friendly than their liquid counterparts.

Ines Gendre, Copywriter specializing in environment, climate change and ecological transition

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