According to a study from the University of Sydney, the carbon footprint of global tourism may account for about 8% of all carbon emissions, with tourism producing 4.3 billion metric tons of carbon emissions annually. This is why more people are embracing the slow travel trend — relying on longer forms of transportation to reduce their carbon footprint. If you’re interested to learn more about the slow travel trend, here are some of the things you should know:
How is slow traveling sustainable?
Slow travel is one of the most viable forms of travelling for our own wellbeing, local communities, and even the planet. From a personal standpoint, not only do you save money, but you also save yourself from the stress of constantly changing environments. Slow travel is also a way to be more mindful of our planet’s resources.
As shared in our featured post on “A Journey of Meaning”, slow travel often relies on trains, buses, and ferries — all of which require fewer fuel and energy, compared to planes. With the high demand for petrol and diesel, opting to use public transport not only help you save money and support local transport businesses, but also helps reduce your contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
Top types of slow travel
With greater concern for the environment, more travel businesses have taken up steps for more sustainable travel and have provided plenty of choices to navigate the local scene. Listed below are the best ways to travel sustainably:
Cycling
Riding a bicycle is the most sustainable option to travel to different destinations. Not only do you cut carbon emissions to a minimum, but you also enjoy the benefits of exercise. In addition, cycling is a great option to pace yourself and better enjoy local experiences, as you stay in control of where you go. In fact, many tourist hotspots around the world are looking to develop routes and areas for cyclists. Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands are being eyed as markets for bicycle tourism, due to an interest accelerated by the pandemic and an increasing traveller trend to explore nature. Soon, we'll likely see more cycling tours around the globe.
Railway
Trains are fantastic for enjoying local sights while travelling significant distances, especially as global airports are struggling to handle the influx of tourists — with as many as 180 flights in UK airports cancelled by travel firm Tui from May to June alone. Although operations have improved, these issues have spurred an interest in alternative options for long-distance travel. Train lines across Europe, Asia, and the US have overnight options, allowing their passengers to sleep on board and save time, making railway tourism a sustainable choice for slow travel.
Boat travel
As reported by Cruise Industry News, luxury boat travel companies are taking steps to maximise their social and economic benefits for local communities, enhance cultural heritage, and reduce their environmental impact. Explora has partnered with Travelife to ensure all of their tour operators, travel advisors, and ports are onboard to work towards sustainable tourism. Their voyages aim to promote longer and slower trips to cross oceans, so travellers can better immerse themselves into the experience. On a smaller scale, boat travel can be seen in the form of canal holidays, where tourists travel across small waterways. These are often hosted by locals, which help support the community's economy.
Other benefits of slow travel
It can also be stressful to manage your budget while travelling. As shared by CNBC, the demand for travel has raised hotel prices by 6% and car rentals by 48%, which can cut heavily into your expenses. With slow travel, you are encouraged to stay in one place. Accommodations are often willing to set deals for long-term guests, which can help you save money in the long run. Furthermore, you can spend less on travelling and take more time to uncover local hangouts. Slowing down your pace allows you to explore different aspects of culture, and linger a little longer in "your" neighbourhood.