Greater Sudbury Northern Life Reporter Liz Fleming
When everything seems to have a green focus these days, it's
important to consider how our travel habits can have an impact
on the environments in which we vacation. We're all becoming
aware of the importance of off-setting the pollution we create
by flying or driving and many of us are now routinely
contributing to websites that enable us to reduce the size of
our carbon "footprint."
What's equally important is to ensure that we continue to be
eco-responsible when we arrive, and that every day of our
holiday we show respect for the new surroundings in which we
find ourselves. As citizens of the world, we need to make sure
that we care for every corner. Next time you're planning a
vacation, pull out this list of eco-friendly travel suggestions
and slip it in your suitcase. Mother Nature will be glad you
did.
-  Enjoy nature but don't chase or try to touch animals or
sea creatures. You're visiting their world, it's a special
privilege for you to be able to do so, and you need to respect,
not disrupt their lives.
-  Don't take anything away with you that's part of the
natural environment. While it may seem like an interesting
souvenir to remind you of your experience, removing bits of the
natural habitat can be upsetting or even dangerous for the
creatures you've been so keen to observe.
-  Stay on marked trails to avoid trampling fragile plant
life. If you see litter left behind by those who've gone before
you, clean it up. Leave that little bit of the world a better
place that you found it.  
-  If you notice any damage in any protected areas, be
sure to report it to the park rangers before you leave.
Delicate ecosystems have to be carefully maintained and the
park management can't have eyes everywhere.
-  Be sure to shop at local stores, deal with local
people, show interest in and enthusiasm for their culture and
try local specialties whenever possible, but avoid purchasing
anything made from tropical woods, turtle shells, ivory, coral
etc. It's your responsibility to ensure that you're not
encouraging the sale of products made from precious, endangered
natural species.
-  When you sit down for dinner, choose seafood and fish
caught locally in a responsible, sustainable fishery
operation. 
-  Swimming, snorkeling or diving? Be sure to keep your
hands and flippers far from the delicate coral reefs. Breaking
off pieces of coral can have serious effects on the sea life
that depend on the reefs for sustenance and a place to live.
Note: staying away from the coral is also an important way to
protect yourself from infection. If you do happen to scratch
yourself on the reef, be sure to wash the scrape with soap and
water and apply a topical disinfectant.
-  Lend a hand! If you have some extra time in your
vacation schedule, consider volunteering to help refurbish a
conservation area or clean up a beach. Giving back is a great
way to make your holiday memorable.
