No matter how much we love to experience, how much we love to explore cultures, there is one truth we have to admit – tourism is having a negative impact on the environment. Aware of this as well as the responsibility for reducing the "carbon footprint".

Put the interests of the natural environment and local communities first. And it can be done for a long time but must ensure that it does not adversely affect the environment, the ecosystem as well as the cultural identity of the area that we pass through.

Beauty of Vietnam

Support local food

One of the best ways to support the primary local economy and reduce emissions while traveling is to buy locally sourced produce and eat at places that use organic ingredients. Avoid eating at fast food chains because they often import ingredients from abroad, while local eateries will use local ingredients. If you cook for yourself, try buying ingredients from local markets as well. This job not only supports the production of farmers but also gives you more opportunities to experience the culture and specialties here.

Say “NO” to wildlife products

You may encounter wildlife products in several tourist destinations during your trip. These products include ivory, tiger fangs, lions, pangolin scales, skins and furs. The purchase of these products also contributes to the promotion of poaching of endangered wildlife species. Therefore, we should not choose these items as souvenirs.

There are many activities such as visiting the rainforest, elephants, feeding crocodiles organized to attract tourists. Many people think that these activities will bring us closer to nature. But what they don't know, every piece of bread the animals receive from us has been destroying the health and ecosystems where they live. Please show your sense and responsibility by learning information about the environment, the ecology of the places you will visit every time you travel.

Save wild animals

In addition, in recent years, many programs and workshops on the topic of nature and wildlife conservation have been held periodically in big cities. You should come join and listen to the opinions of experts to have a correct view of the impact of tourism on the environment and the existence of animals.

Choose a place that doesn't follow the crowd

Due to the impact of the pandemic, many Vietnamese tourists agree to avoid popular destinations and places to visit so as not to cause overcrowding. Being aware of this issue when planning your travel will help you reduce pressure on the already fragile environment and ecosystems, as well as the local community. Look for less-known spots or a place right next to popular attractions. In addition, you should also consider traveling during the low season when the number of visitors is less.

Beauty of Vietnam

Another solution for those who like a new feeling is to ask to stay at a local people's house. You will have interesting experiences when sitting together on a tray of rice or participating in the daily activities of the host family. Currently, for foreign tourists, there are a number of applications to rent affordable accommodation from locals, without taking much time to check in. You just need to post the information and conditions of the room you need. When you arrive, there will be "hosts" to pick you up at the airport or subway. Saving costs and contributing to sustainable tourism development, why not?

Beauty of Vietnam - Trekking Bidoup

Goodbye single-use plastic

Visitors can also contribute with small actions such as bringing reusable water bottles instead of buying plastic water bottles, or packing favorite bottles of shower gel and shampoo at home for travel. Instead of using single-use plastic, alternatives like stainless steel bottles can last for many years.

We can bring our own water bottles when we go to these places, which both saves a small amount of money in buying bottled water, and can limit the use of too many plastic bottles. Separate water bottles also have a heat-retaining type and a variety of designs, much more convenient than regular plastic bottles.

Don't use plastic

Book meaningful tours to support the local community

When planning your next trip, look to tour operators that are socially responsible in supporting and contributing to the local community, and in compliance with conscious tourism practices standards. 

Beauty of Vietnam

If possible, in addition to the reputation and feedback from previous customers, learn more about the environmental contributions of the travel agencies of your choice. Prioritizing responsible travel companies is also a way to promote the sustainable development of the tourism industry in general. By supporting these businesses, local communities will also benefit directly and fairly from the tourism industry.

Beauty of Vietnam

With the current trend of sustainable tourism development, PDC is also proud to be one of the leading companies in developing sustainable adventure tours. We have our own policies to minimize the impact on the environment and local culture.