More and more holidaymakers are choosing to become an eco-traveler. They are thus trying to limit the consequences of mass tourism. Air, water and soil pollution, concreteisation of coastlines, disappearance of biodiversity, poor waste management and overconsumption of natural resources ... In the most touristic regions, the environment is paying a heavy price.
Ethat's not all. The imbalance of the rental market, the threat of cultural heritage and seasonal overcrowding affect the quality of life of local populations. Tourism represents for them a financial windfall, but also becomes a factor of degradation of their environment. The balance is sometimes difficult to find, and in several regions mass tourism has won the day. Tourism is today the third largest economic sector in the world after chemicals and fuels. In other words, a heavyweight in the global economy. But for many, this is enough. The end can no longer justify the means. It is time to change our individual behaviors while waiting for deeper changes. It's time to become an eco-traveler.
This hummingbird strategy, more and more travelers have adopted it. Now is the time for sustainable holidays, limited travel and environmentally friendly leisure activities. Eco-tourism was defined in 1992 by the International Eco-Tourism Society as "A form of responsible travel in natural spaces, which contributes to the protection of the environment and the well-being of local populations". Eco-tourism enhances endangered natural areas or cultural sites, and develops employment at the local level without destroying the environment.
And when we start to take an interest in eco-tourism, we can only note that the offer is bloated.
Destinations
France is one of the countries with the greatest diversity of landscapes, ecosystems and climates. In metropolitan France, the oceanic, Mediterranean, mountain and continental climates coexist, generating a range of exceptional landscapes. Sandy beaches, creeks, coves and cliffs, pine forests, scrubland or primary forests, but also green plains, marshes and wetlands, high plateaus, passes and vertiginous peaks ... You will not have enough of a life to overcome all the destinations available to you. No need to go to the end of the world to be filled.
Labels can help you make an informed choice. Regional Natural Parks are created to protect and enhance large inhabited rural areas. The label City or Country of Art and History, certifies that the public authorities are committed to the protection of their cultural and natural heritage. Labeled municipalities Objective 0 Phyto are committed to reducing the use of plant protection products.
Accommodation for eco-travelers
More and more tourism professionals are committing to an approach that respects the environment. Hotels and campings limit the use of plastic. Welcome to the farm labels, Écogîte or Accueil Paysan are now well known to the general public. The Gîtes Panda label attests to respect for biodiversity, eco-habitat and eco-citizenship of the hosts. Many campings are part of an approach that respects the environment.
Food
To the eco-traveler, consuming local is the key word, and preferably organic. Why not take advantage of the holidays to stroll through the small markets and browse the shops of enthusiasts. You risk only one thing… Take a liking to this quality of life and continue all year round!
Leisure and eco-travel
Si the eco-traveler makes the choice to slow down and savor the present moment, however impossible for him to experience boredom. Cycling, hiking, Nordic walking, petanque, tennis, swimming, canoeing, fishing, introduction to market gardening, eco-construction and sustainable development, workshops with craftsmen and visits to farms will always be on the agenda.
As you will have understood, the eco-traveler spends excellent and relaxing holidays while making reasoned and responsible choices, and respecting the places and populations that welcome him. Take the step! This summer, become an eco-traveler.
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