‍Introduction

Traveling is an incredible way to broaden horizons, immerse oneself in different cultures, and create lasting memories. However, it’s essential to consider the impact of our adventures on the environment and local communities. Sustainable travel is a growing movement that aims to minimize the negative consequences of tourism while maximizing positive contributions. In this article, we will explore various initiatives and practices that make travel more sustainable and responsible.

Sustainable Principles in Action

Small Groups and Local Engagement

One of the fundamental principles of sustainable travel is minimizing the impact on local communities. By traveling in small groups, we can ensure a less invasive experience for destinations. Companies like Explore prioritize locally owned and managed establishments, allowing travelers to stay and eat in places that benefit the community directly. This approach also promotes local interactions and provides a respectful insight into local life.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

The travel industry is responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions. To address this issue, many travel companies, including Explore, have implemented measures to reduce their carbon footprint. By introducing carbon footprint measurements, they can track and analyze emissions from their tours. Explore has set a target of reducing their carbon emissions by 50% by 2030, with a 7% reduction target for this year. They have taken steps like replacing domestic flights with greener options, such as rail journeys, and working with suppliers to make more sustainable choices.

Carbon Removal Projects

While reducing carbon emissions is crucial, some emissions are unavoidable. To offset these emissions, Explore has partnered with Klimate, an organization that focuses on carbon removal rather than traditional offsetting. Klimate manages a portfolio of carefully chosen and monitored carbon removal projects. For every person that travels with Explore, a contribution is made to Klimate, supporting their efforts to lower the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere.

Protecting and Restoring the Natural Environment

Sustainable travel is not only about reducing emissions but also about protecting and restoring the natural environment. Explore recognizes the importance of preserving biodiversity and has partnered with Rewilding Britain. For every customer that travels with Explore, a contribution is made to Rewilding Britain. This organization works towards restoring and protecting the natural environment in the UK, a country considered to be one of the most nature-depleted. By supporting initiatives like Rewilding Britain, Explore aims to mitigate the emissions that cannot be entirely removed.

Supporting Local Communities: The Explore Foundation

The Explore Foundation is a registered charity managed by an independent Board of Trustees. It aims to positively impact the lives of communities worldwide by supporting grassroots projects that target poverty, increase access to education and healthcare, and promote conservation. Explore covers all administration costs, ensuring that 100% of donations go directly to the chosen projects. Through their extensive network of overseas partners and contacts, the Foundation identifies and supports projects in countries visited by Explore customers. Some of the projects supported by the Foundation include Lone Buffalo in Laos and One Bike in Tanzania.

Creating Sustainable Workspaces

Sustainable practices are not limited to travel experiences alone; they extend to the workspaces as well. Explore has made efforts to make their head office more sustainable. They work with specialist waste companies for recycling and disposing of rubbish using eco-friendly methods. The office utilizes solar panels and renewable energy providers, reducing their reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Explore has also taken steps to reduce commuting by closing the office on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, encouraging staff to work from home on these days.

Encouraging Staff to Be Sustainable

Explore believes in leading by example and encourages its staff to adopt sustainable practices. They have implemented a low-carbon staff transport policy, allowing employees to claim additional leave when they choose lower carbon transport options for personal trips and holidays. Moreover, Explore has installed EV chargers at the office and is working on an EV scheme for staff, as well as supporting cycling and rail commuting.

Sustainable Marketing

In addition to operational sustainability, Explore is committed to making their marketing efforts more sustainable. They have reduced brochure sizes and print runs, favoring brochures by request and digital access. By reusing materials and using natural and recycled resources in their exhibition stands, they minimize waste. Explore also partners with digital tools and agencies that align with their sustainability values, such as Good Loop, which generates profits for charity through clicks.

Animal Protection Policy

Animal welfare is an essential aspect of sustainable travel. Explore has implemented an Animal Protection Policy to ensure that animals are protected and kept wild. They have a no-contact policy on trips and have established a traffic light system that categorizes every interaction with animals. This system is independently audited annually to ensure compliance with animal welfare guidelines.

Planting Trees for a Greener Future

To further contribute to carbon reduction, Explore has partnered with Ecologi. Ecologi invests in projects that demonstrate a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, with the goal of reducing global CO2 emissions by 50% by 2040. Through this partnership, Explore plants a tree for every customer that becomes a Platinum loyalty club member, expressing gratitude and rewarding loyalty in a nature-positive way.

Conclusion

Sustainable travel is the future of exploring the world responsibly. By prioritizing local communities, reducing carbon emissions, supporting conservation projects, and implementing sustainable practices, companies like Explore are leading the way in creating positive change in the travel industry. As travelers, it is our responsibility to choose sustainable options and make conscious decisions that preserve the environment and benefit local communities. Let’s embark on our adventures with the aim of leaving a positive and lasting impact on the places we visit.