Travel and tourism can protect the world´s natural and cultural heritage and create opportunities not only for the destination but also for the travel and tourism industry.
Inquire about the customs, culture, routes, opportunities and limitations as a tourist. Nothing better than to understand the people, to know how to respect them and how to unfold the region.
While preparing the trip search for green accommodations. In the Azores there are several accommodations with good practices towards environmental impact and some with environmental certification (E.g.: Miosotis award and Green Key)
Our everyday actions produce carbon dioxide emissions. Carbon offsetting is used to compensate for your emissions by financing alternative energy projects and for projects that can reduce CO2 emissions in several other industries. Some Airlines have their own Carbon offsetting program. Consult the airline you are flying.
If you have a smartphone you don´t need to print tickets. Make sure you have a good battery percentage when you travel.
To avoid buying and use plastic bottles, bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water in the Azores is of the highest quality. The water is safe to drink and subject to rigorous quality control and regular laboratory analysis, complying with the most demanding national and European legal requirements.
Purchase products or experiences from local companies.
Return maps, brochures, and other tourist infomation once you´re finished with them so that they may be reused by future travelers.
Plastic is one big world issue, being around 80 million tonnes in the ocean. Say no to single use plastics and try to reduce the waste generated by your trip.
Select Restaurants that offer fresh local products, meaning lower carbon emission. Restaurants with local food will share with you the flavors, ingredients, and recipes from the Azorean heritage. Several restaurants in the Azores make part of a program to reduce food waste and are committed to recycle as well as making waste separation.
Do not leave the marked walking trails to avoid harming the flora.
Throw you garbage in the appropriate waste bins, please recycle. Leave the places how as you found it: take only pictures and carry good memories with you. Try to obtain information about the several aspects of the any Protected Area you are visiting. Go to its supporting structures (Interpretation Centers, Nature Parks, Museums, and Monuments)
Avoid long showers and don´t change the towels every day.
Use a tour operator that gives back to the local community, that hires local guides and that takes a leading role in preserving the areas and natural resources.
Share the Experience you had as a sustainable traveler.