Green Tourism in Cornwall 15/08/10
Sustainable tourism, eco-tourism, green tourism. There are many labels, but whatever you prefer to call it, the definition remains the same: low impact, environmentally-friendly tourism that cherishes, not destroys. We ...
Sustainable tourism, eco-tourism, green tourism. There are many labels, but whatever you prefer to call it, the definition remains the same: low impact, environmentally-friendly tourism that cherishes, not destroys.
We all have want to travel and explore new places. Tourism is now the world’s fastest growing industry, but this comes the increased responsibility on us to try to reduce the negative impact our journeys have on the environment. But that doesn’t mean you have to forfeit your summer holiday and sit at home looking at pictures. There’s lots you can do to travel responsibly and reduce the environmental effects of traveling.
Use Public Transport
The public transport system in West Cornwall is an excellent way to explore the area. First Great Western operate an open top circular bus route around West Cornwall, allowing you to jump on and off at some of the most popular towns and attractions in the area.
Try to incorporate car free days out buy using the busses as well as cycling and walking, the greenest ways to get around. There are hundreds of miles of public foot paths taking you along the coastal cliff walks and the fabulous moors.
Reduce The Energy You Use
Direct energy consumption, such as televisions and heating, account for a large proportion of your “Carbon Footprint” whilst on holiday. Simple things such as turning appliances off at the wall and turning your heating down a degree or two make a big difference to your environmental impact.
Why not go one step further and book yourself into “Green Accommodation” or visit “Green Attractions”. They are businesses who are committed to reducing their impact on the environment without having to sacrifice on the luxury’s we have all come to expect while on holiday. Simply Green Cornwall can advise you on some of the green services available in Cornwall.
Reduce Waste
Wherever possible try to use reusable products. Bring rechargeable batteries with you, reuse your plastic water bottle, bring your own cloth bag with you from home. They are all small things that can reduce your impact on the local environment. West Cornwall has plenty of recycling facilities available dotted around the area. Many of the more popular beaches have recycle bin right next to the standard bins.
Recycling and reusing aside, it is equally important to dispose of your waste in a responsible way using the bins provided. Try to leave your holiday destination in as good a condition as you found it in.
Buy Local Products, Use Local Services
By supporting the businesses local to you holiday destination is often the best way to get a true Cornish experience. Cornwall produces a wide range of locally sourced products, everything from fresh fish to locally grown wine is available in the area. Cornish produce is increasingly recognised for its exceptional quality and often wins world class awards. These products generally have a low carbon footprint due to less intensive production methods and shorter journeys for the goods them selves.
By supporting local businesses you help to stimulate the local economy by keeping the money in the area. Tourism accounts for 24% of all money generated in Cornwall and supports 1 in 4 jobs in West Cornwall.
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