Sustainable travel is the newest trend in adventuring with more people wanting to reduce their carbon footprint as they get around a country or continent. Exploring the UK sustainably is now easier than ever, as more low-impact travel options are being introduced across the country.
It isn’t just about using sustainable transport, as eco-travellers need to continuously find ways to help the environment and the local communities. Supporting local businesses, finding eco-friendly accommodation and visiting national parks can all help to reduce your carbon footprint as you travel around the UK.
This guide will give you some advice into how you can explore the UK sustainably without increasing your carbon footprint. Continue reading to find out more.
Green Transport
Rail Travel
The UK has over 2,500 train stations, making it easy to travel between major cities like London, Edinburgh and Cardiff. While trains still produce relatively high levels of CO2, they aren’t as harsh on the environment as other modes of transport due to their ability to carry a large amount of people from one location to another.
It’s far better than all of these people driving their own vehicles, simultaneously pumping more emissions into the atmosphere. There are also some railway routes that act as both transport and mobile hotels, reducing the need for extra nights in energy-heavy buildings.
Walking / Cycling
The UK is one of the most ideal for walking and cycling, as it’s possible to get a far distance using either of these methods with cycling being the most beneficial for longer distances.
There are long-distance cycle paths all over the UK that are perfect for a green and active way to explore the countryside. This keeps you away from the hustle and bustle of the major cities, so you can enjoy a more tranquil adventure through some seaside towns.
Electric Vehicles
As the UK is aiming for Net Zero in 2030, they have been actively increasing the amount of electric vehicle charging stations across the country. This has boosted the sales of electric vehicles with more people willing to reduce their carbon footprint as they go from place to place in the UK. Modern electric car batteries last between 150 to 400 miles per charge, making it a great way to travel around a country.
Eco Stays
Green Tourism Gold Ratings
You should prioritize properties with Green Tourism Gold ratings. Hotels like The Scarlet in Cornwall or Heckfield Place in Hampshire lead the way with onsite biodynamic farms and biomass heating.
To achieve this rating, accommodations require 80%+ compliance with sustainability goals. Most of them will focus on energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction and community engagement.
Rewilding Retreats
Consider regenerative tourism as part of your stay in the UK. You can stay at farms that are actively rewilding and give a helping hand to those working there, as you have a lasting impact on the area’s environment.
Your booking fee directly funds nature recovery projects, meaning your presence actually leaves the land better than you found it.
Zero Waste
Locally-Grown Produce
When you go to restaurants that locally source or grow their own produce, it significantly benefits the environment as it means that you aren’t supporting businesses who get their food delivered using high emissions methods.
Every town in the UK will have local food businesses where you can source all of your meals, giving you an unlimited supply of eco-friendly grub as you travel through the country.
Hydration Stations
Most UK towns now feature extensive public water refill networks that provide users with a sustainable way of hydrating themselves. Make sure to carry a high-quality insulated bottle too so that you can bypass the 100 million plastic bottles still sold annually, reducing your impact on the environment in the process.
Low-Impact Activities
Sustainable Shopping
Those who are looking to purchase some items to remember their trip can find sustainable shopping centres like The Liberty in Romford that make active strides to improve their carbon footprint every year.
They have a range of high-end stores and thrifting opportunities, giving those who travel to the UK a large selection of goods to purchase.
Chronocations
Avoid the instagrammable areas during bank holidays, as these can be very busy. Instead, visit the Lake District in the shoulder seasons of March or October to give yourself some unique sights. This type of travel will reduce the physical erosion of paths and support local economies when they need it most.
Active Conservation
Swap a standard travel for a citizen science experience that promotes volunteer tourism. Many coastal operators now offer kayaking trips that double as marine plastic surveys or seal monitoring sessions, giving you the chance to learn more about the environment while you actively make a difference.
New schemes, such as the Sustainable Farming Incentive, are being introduced to reward farmers for environmental improvements and tourists can get involved with this.
Darcy Fowler has dedicated a lot of time to travelling around countries in Europe and Asia. She is determined to provide interesting and insightful content with the hope of inspiring others to broaden their horizons. Darcy has a big ambition to establish herself in the world of home travel blogging.
