How to choose sustainable properties for your trip?

With the rise of global tourism and travel, traveling sustainably is not just a trend, but a necessary shift towards preserving our planet and supporting local communities. In reality, travelers have a lot of power to drive this change. One of the simplest ways is to choose ecological rooms. By making informed decisions about where to stay, you can significantly reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to the well-being of the places you visit.

Amit Jaipuria, Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Postcard Travel Club, shares some key strategies to help you choose sustainable properties for your travels.

1. Research eco-certificationsOne of the first steps in selecting a sustainable property is to look for recognized green certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Key, which ensure that the property meets specific sustainability standards. Properties with these certifications have undergone rigorous evaluations and have demonstrated a commitment to environmental practices. Additionally, you can look for property memberships in groups like The Long Run, which supports brands on their sustainability journey. These certifications and memberships are a reliable way to identify properties that prioritize green practices.
2. Consult sustainable practicesBeyond certifications, it is also crucial to analyze what sustainable practices a property employs. Make an effort to educate yourself about your waste management systems, energy efficiency measures, and water conservation initiatives. A truly sustainable property will be transparent about its efforts and initiatives. For example, they could have a comprehensive recycling program, use energy-efficient appliances, and implement water-saving technologies. Asking these questions not only ensures that the property is environmentally responsible, but also signals to management that guests value sustainability.
3. Opt for green building designAn additional feature in addition to sustainable practices are properties that incorporate green building design elements. These can include features like solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and natural lighting. Green building design indicates the overall approach of owners and investors and could lead the way toward greener practices. Staying at these properties allows travelers to enjoy modern amenities knowing that their stay is environmentally responsible.
4. Support local communitiesAnother way to look for properties that are sustainable is to see how well they support local communities. This may include using locally sourced products, employing local staff, engaging in fair trade practices, and other similar measures. Often, properties that implement such practices will also attempt to promote cultural heritage during your stay. By staying at these properties, travelers can ensure that their money directly benefits the local economy and helps preserve local traditions and lifestyles. It's a meaningful way to make a positive impact on the places you visit.
5. Reduce carbon footprintTraveling inevitably involves creating a carbon footprint, but some accommodations offer ways to mitigate this impact. Look for properties that offer options to reduce your carbon footprint, such as bike rentals or easy access to public transportation. Some properties also participate in carbon offset programs, where they invest in environmental projects that offset the emissions generated by their operations. Choosing these properties allows travelers to minimize their environmental impact while still enjoying the convenience and comfort of their accommodation.

Choosing sustainable properties for your trips is an easy and powerful way to contribute to environmental conservation and support local communities. It only requires a little initial effort and makes you part of a complete movement without invading your comfort or the pleasure of traveling. Next time you book a trip, be sure to look for these signs of sustainable accommodation in the stays you book. Sustainable travel is not just about reducing negative impact on the world, but also about creating positive changes and inspiring others to choose to prioritize the environment too.

Gajendra Singh Rathore, founder of Jungle Camps India, shares some tips on how people choose sustainable properties for their trips:

1. Consult certifications: There are several green certification programs in India such as TOFT PUG certification, RTSOI Lodge certification, LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and I Green Rating System. These programs have strict criteria that properties must meet. comply to obtain certification.
2. Research the property's sustainability practices: Even if a property is not certified, you can still research their sustainability practices on their website or by contacting the property directly. Look for properties that have practices in place to reduce their impact on the environment, such as using renewable energy sources, water conservation, and waste minimization.
3. Choose properties built with local materials.This helps reduce the property's carbon footprint and supports the local economy.
4. Consider the location of the propertyProperties located in close proximity to national parks or other protected areas are more likely to be committed to sustainability. Staying in a property that is far from these areas can mean more travel time and emissions.
5. Ask about the property's involvement with the local community.Some properties support local communities by employing local people, sourcing food from local farmers and supporting local conservation efforts.