Walking Holidays: An Environmentally Friendly Way to Travel
The environment is becoming an increasing concern in today’s world, and tourism has something to answer for. Fortunately, there has been a rise in sustainable travel options to help keep our impact to a minimum. And, in some cases, even contribute in a positive way by travelling.
The Environmental Costs of Traditional Travel
Air travel, a common mode of transport for holidaymakers, is a major contributor to carbon dioxide emissions. In 2019, aviation accounted for about 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. Road travel also leads to increased traffic congestion and air pollution in popular tourist destinations, making some cities like Bangkok difficult to breathe in.
Mass tourism can strain local infrastructure, particularly in small towns and rural areas not equipped to handle large influxes of visitors. This can lead to water shortages, waste management issues and damage to natural habitats. Large hotel complexes often pave over natural habitats, and visitors often contribute to higher rates of consumption.
Walking Holidays: A Natural Way To Travel
Walking holidays offer a low-impact alternative to traditional travel. They have a significantly smaller carbon footprint compared to holidays involving air or car travel. Ideally, you would pick a route that is close to where you live, but if you’re set on flying off to Spain regardless (to catch some good weather), then a walking holiday at least avoids renting a car and clogging up public transport.
These trips also have minimal impact on local ecosystems. Walkers typically stick to established paths and don’t indulge in overconsumption. Walking holidays can actually contribute to the preservation of natural habitats and can even support conservation efforts through sustainable tourism practices. For example, you can keep an eye out for rare species and record your sightings to the relevant organisation. Nature-based holidays also result in less air and noise pollution compared to motorised forms of travel.
Health and Wellness Advantages
Walking holidays aren’t just good for the environment, they’re good for us. Walking can improve cardiovascular health and strengthen muscles. If everyone did it, the NHS may face some relief. A typical day on a walking holiday might involve 5-7 hours of walking, potentially burning thousands of calories.
These trips also offer mental health benefits where we reconnect with nature. Not only does it reduce stress and boost our mood, it can lead to more environmentally-conscious decisions down the line because of this rekindled appreciation for our world.
Economic Impact on Local Communities
Walking holidays can have a positive economic impact on local communities, particularly in rural areas. They support small, locally-owned businesses such as B&Bs, cafes, and shops. Spain has recently seen some protests over-tourism, but almost all of it has been in overcrowded destinations like Barcelona and Mallorca. These locations are only further concentrating wealth and economic activity rather than redistributing it to poorer, rural areas.
Plus, the kinds of jobs it creates in rural areas tend to be good for the environment. Instead of creating more plastic-laden souvenir shops in Barcelona, they’re creating conservation jobs in forests.
Conclusion
Walking holidays are a much more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional tourism. They’re healthy, they’re cheap, and they’re better for the locals.