The Czech Tourism Authority has launched a campaign focused on sustainability in the Czech Republic, aiming to promote sustainable and responsible tourism practices and to raise awareness about the importance of protecting its natural and cultural heritage.
The dedicated website features a range of informative articles, guides and resources on sustainable travel, eco-friendly accommodation, green transportation and more. It also highlights local businesses and organizations that are making a positive impact on the environment and their communities.
To be sustainable, travel should show respect for the nature and culture of the places you visit. Just starting to think about ‘greener’ travel means you are on your way to becoming a responsible traveller.
Czech Tourism
“We love travelling but we are mindful of how damaging it can be to the environment and the locals. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the Czech Republic, our website offers practical tips and insights on how to reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. We believe that by working together, we can create a more sustainable world for ourselves and future generations “, the Czech Tourism Authority explains.
The website offers 12 tips on how to become a more responsible traveller:
1. Stay in eco-conscious accommodation
Overnight stays are the second largest source of carbon emissions when travelling, so choosing an environmentally friendly, locally run accommodation will help you, at least partially, offset the emissions you have caused by getting to your destination. Secondly, by choosing locally run accommodation over multinational hotel chains, the money you spend stays in the region. Last but not least, it’s just interesting to see how they’ve dealt with the issue of sustainability in your hotel.
2. In hotels – do as you would at home
Avoid changing towels and bed linen unless necessary. By reusing, you save water and energy and thus reduce the hotel’s carbon footprint. Do not shower for too long and stop the water while brushing your teeth. Unplug your devices when they’re not charging. Turn off the TV when you’re not watching it, and don’t forget to switch off the lights and air conditioning when you leave the room to explore the beauty of the city.
3. Eat local, shop local
There is perhaps no better way to get to know a country and its culture than through food! By buying local products, you support local producers and reduce the need for imported food. Instead of well-known international chains, go to a local independent restaurant for dinner or lunch and support the local community.
4. Create eco-friendly activities plan
You can also reduce your negative impact on the environment by choosing your activities. Explore your travel destination on a bike rather than by car or just go hiking.
5. Bag it and bin it
When travelling, it’s important to enjoy nature without leaving waste or damage behind. As you spend time outdoors in the Czech national parks and reserves, or in the wilderness, be aware of your actions and their effects on plants, animals and people, both locals and other visitors. Leaving no trash behind is essential. And if you want to leave the destination in a better condition than before your arrival, you could pick up the litter you find on the ground and throw it in the bin.
6. Discover Czechia out of high season
You can play a part in reducing the impact of over-tourism by avoiding popular destinations that struggle to deal with their influx of tourists. Seek out off the beaten path places instead. If you really want to visit a popular destination, try visiting in the shoulder seasons when there are fewer tourists around, rather than during peak season.
7. Stay longer
The longer you stay, the lower the negative environmental impact of your trip. And most importantly, the longer you stay, the better chance you have to get to know the country, visit less frequented places away from the tourist crowds, allowing for unique and authentic experiences.
8. Book direct flights
If possible, choose flights that take you directly to your destination as landing and take-off are the most demanding phases of the flight in terms of fuel consumption (and therefore CO2 emissions production).
9. Travel light
Only put the things you really need in your suitcase because the heavier the plane’s load is, the more fuel it will consume, thus increasing the carbon emissions produced.
10. Get around with low carbon emissions
Always choose public transport over the car. That’s one of the best things you can do for the environment when travelling. Not only will you save yourself the hassle of parking, but you won’t create any additional greenhouse gas emissions. You’ll get better travel experiences and more opportunities to interact with locals. Or use bike sharing or simply walk and explore cities like a local. In case you do want to go by car, at least hire an electric one from a local car rental company.
11. No more plastic
No need to buy bottled water in Czechia, tap water is safe to drink, so invest in a stylish reusable bottle and refill it in your hotel room, restaurant bathrooms or at one of the many fountains you will find along the streets. And don’t forget to bring your own bags (and pouches) for shopping.
12. Contribute to the restoration of nature
In addition to travelling more sustainably, you can give back to nature by planting a tree. The Plant the Future initiative aims to plant 10 million trees outside the forest in Czechia by the end of 2025. You can get involved as a donor or volunteer and plant a tree with your own hands.
