World Ozone Day: Ways You Can Travel Responsibly and Protect Nature

Over the years, many new travel trends have emerged. However, the one trend that has gained immense popularity and is very relevant in the modern context is ‘ecotourism.’ It is essentially a way to travel, enjoy all the things you normally do as a traveller, yet cause no or minimal harm to mother nature.  

To minimise the harm that the tourism industry causes to nature, and maximise the good it does, many governments and travel companies adopt and promote this concept to benefit the tourists, locals, cultures, and the overall global ecosystem. With World Ozone Day around the corner, on September 16, let us learn to adopt certain basic practices to travel responsibly and protect nature. 

Before, we go down to listing down the tips on how you can be a responsible traveller, and contribute to protection of mother earth, let us understand what World Ozone Day is.

What is World Ozone Day?

World Ozone Day, also known as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, is celebrated every year on September 16th. It's a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of the ozone layer and the measures taken to preserve it.

The ozone layer is a fragile shield of gas that protects the Earth from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. These rays can lead to various health problems in humans, such as skin cancer, cataracts, and weakened immune systems, as well as harming marine ecosystems, wildlife, and other environmental aspects.

World Ozone Day commemorates the signing of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer on September 16, 1987. This international treaty was designed to phase out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. It has been highly effective in reducing the use of these substances, leading to a gradual healing of the ozone layer.

Tips for Responsible Travelling

Responsible travel is not only about respecting local cultures and environments but also about protecting the global environment, including the ozone layer. Here are some tips for responsible travelling that can contribute to ozone layer protection: 

• Avoid buying animal product-based souvenirs
• Give it back to the local community
• Be at home in your hotel
• Carry your own water bottle
• Use public transport 
• Book a non-stop flight
• Stay at an eco-friendly resort or hotel 
• Support local and sustainable businesses

Avoid buying animal product-based souvenirs 

When you go to a new place, you may want to take some tangible memories of the place back home by buying souvenirs. But, be conscious about what you are buying. Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell whether the product you wish to buy is made of animal skin, bones, etc. So, it is best to avoid buying objects that are made from wildlife. If the buying stops, killing of animals and illegal trade will stop too.  

Give it back to the local community 

Another great way to be a responsible traveller is to be a volunteer. While you visit any place, you can work with the local charitable organisations or NGOs that works for the cause that is dear to you and do community service.  

For example, if you like teaching, you can collaborate with an NGO that works for the upliftment of street children. Or you can work with any global organisation and help in cleaning the local beach or community, etc. The opportunities are endless. 

Be at home in your hotel 

When you are staying in a hotel, act like you are at home. So, don’t take long showers, switch off the TV, AC, lights, etc when you leave the room. Sure, you are not going to pay the hotel’s electricity bill, but you are adding to the carbon footprint. You may do all this at home, why not do it while travelling as well? 

Carry your own water bottle 

You may be aware that plastic is nature’s greatest nemesis. The plastic bottles account for a huge amount of waste that end up in the ocean. So, when you travel, it is advisable to carry your own water bottle. You can refill the bottle and avoid wasting plastic cups and save money on buying water bottles.  

Use public transport 

Responsible travelling doesn’t require any special efforts. All you need to do is be mindful of your actions and think of the consequences on nature. Simple steps can have a massive impact. For example, instead of booking a cab, use carpool or the public transport when travelling within the city. 

Do a bit of research about the transport facilities in your destination and see how you can reduce the carbon footprint. Instead of renting a car, ride a train or bus. Alternatively, walk as much as you can, it would be the fastest way to get around in big cities. Besides, walking is good for health  

Book a non-stop flight 

Flights burn the maximum amount of fuel during takeoff and landing. So, you can contribute to protecting nature by booking a direct or non-stop flight. This will significantly help in reducing the amount of carbon released. Besides, booking a non-stop flight is beneficial to you. You can avoid the hassles of transfer, and you can reach your destination faster. 

Stay at an eco-friendly resort 

When you book your stay, look for an eco-friendly resort or hotels that are eco-sensitive. You can book your stay at Club Mahindra Resorts, which are located at 125+ destinations in India and abroad. These resorts have adopted many eco-sensitive practices into their everyday activities that has made tourism to these locations greener and nature friendly.  

Support local and sustainable businesses

Purchasing from local artisans and eating at restaurants that source locally produced food supports community sustainability. This practice minimizes the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods long distances.

So, now that you know how to be a responsible traveller, follow these tips, and help protect nature as you continue to enjoy travelling.