5 Ways Tourism Can Have a Negative Impact

Summer’s here, and that means folks around the world are packing their bags and setting off for new adventures and well-deserved breaks. It’s nice seeing all those beach pics popping up on your feed, but let’s also talk about the potential harm that vacationing can have. And don’t worry, we’ll also tell you how you can help with expert advice from travel vlogger Nadine Sykora.

Sustainable travel is all about tourism that minimizes the harm and works to improve the natural and cultural environments of where you visit. About 87% of people say they want to travel sustainably, but only about half actually do. Here’s your chance to change that! Read on to learn about damaging tourist practices and simple steps you can take to avoid them.

1. Tourism can lead to water overuse.

It’s estimated that 100 luxury hotel guests use as much water in 55 days as 100 residents of developing countries do in three years. Tourists can deplete local water supplies, creating scarcity for those who live there full-time.

What you can do:

Staying at a hotel doesn’t mean you need to be wasteful. “Refuse housekeeping,” Nadine says. “If you are staying in a hotel or even an Airbnb, hang the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign on the door, and save the staff from washing all your towels and bedsheets every day.” If you’re traveling with towels and linens, go for cotton fabrics. They’re breathable and don’t retain odor, which can save you a few washes.

2. Tourism can contribute to environmental pollution.

Popular vacation spots may receive thousands of visitors, and that means thousands of visitors’ worth of trash -- food containers, water bottles, cosmetic packaging, etc. Even when discarded properly, the waste left behind can still strain the capacity of local trash management systems.

What you can do:

Nadine’s advice is pretty simple: say no to plastic! Single-use plastics are one of the largest contributors to this kind of pollution, so make adjustments where you can.“Bring your own reusable bags for shopping, buy in bulk, and bring smaller containers or reusable smaller bags for packing meals,” Nadine suggests. Plus, reusable cotton totes are both more environmentally friendly and more durable than other materials.

3. Tourism can encourage the displacement of locals.

In the pursuit of profit, some travel destinations have pushed out residents and local businesses to make room for luxury resorts and major chains that attract tourists. What results is a degradation of the local economy, culture, and community.

What you can do:

Be really purposeful about the places you go or the activities you do. “Eat at local establishments, and look at hiring local tour guides,” Nadine says. “Try to ensure that the money you’d already be spending is going towards the people who live in the community you’re visiting.” You’ll probably end up having a more meaningful time anyway if you truly immerse yourself in the area.

4. Tourism can leave a large carbon footprint.

It takes a lot of energy to transport and accommodate the world’s travelers. In fact, global tourism accounts for 8% of the earth’s total carbon emissions, which ultimately contributes to climate change.

What you can do:

A lot of carbon emissions come down to transportation, so take any opportunity to reduce your impact there. “Try spending more time in each destination instead of taking multiple short trips or constantly moving to different locations,” Nadine says. “Slowing things down not only reduces your carbon footprint, it will also give you more time to soak in your surroundings and really appreciate the experience you’re having.” And while you’re there, travel in groups and use public transportation to be even more sustainable.

5. Tourism can harm ocean health.

Coral bays have been destroyed as a result of tourists boating and snorkeling by the thousands. Add to that the previously mentioned trash threat and the luxury development of untouched coastlines, and the ocean may be in trouble.

What you can do:

Be aware of what you bring with you to the environments you’re visiting. “Wear reef-safe sunscreen if you are doing anything in a body of water, as the chemicals in certain sunscreens can have a detrimental effect on local marine life and reefs,” Nadine recommends. It’s all about doing your research and being respectful of your surroundings.

Want more from Nadine? Subscribe to her YouTube channel, Hey Nadine! If you’re looking to dress sustainably in your travels, take a look here in creating our sustainable travel guide.