Living an eco-friendly life is not only beneficial to the environment, but also to your health, and not to mention your wallet. With the current crisis, the environment has been put on hold for a bit, but there are still ways you can stay safe and sustainable this summer. Think about some small changes you can make for a more sustainable holiday. Here are some tricks you can try.
Plan a Staycation
A staycation is the safest and most sustainable type of holiday you can have this summer. Why not plan activities you can do at home? You could start a new gardening project or grow your own vegetables. What could be better for the environment than living off your own greens? Here are some fun and fast-growing options. Don’t forget to get the kids involved as well!
Safe Holidays
If you do decide to go away, stay in places where social distancing is easier. Avoid crowds and stick to low-density locations. You could stay in a short-term holiday home, like an Airbnb apartment, to avoid dealing with fellow guests and hotel staff.
Check out the facilities at your accommodation. It’s best to avoid lifts and pools. Most places will have their own protocols in place by now, so it’s worth contacting customer service and finding out more. It’s hard to say what other attractions and catering facilities will be available yet this summer, but keep your wits about you.
Safety Kit
This year, you’ll need to make a few additions to your standard travel first aid kit. Pack some rubber gloves (multipack), hand sanitizer, a couple of homemade face masks per person, and bleach or all-purpose cleaner. Use these to thoroughly clean yourselves, your vehicle, and any accommodation you stay in. This includes disinfecting your hands and door handles, or anything you’ve touched after buying groceries or petrol.
Sustainable Shopping
Use your own shopping bags when you go to the supermarket. You can throw these in the washing machine straight after you unpack. You’ll be doing the environment a favour, while keeping your exposure to a minimum. If you run your own business, why not add your logo to custom tote bags? This is a very effective promotional idea and a creative way to get your branding out there.
Another great option can be using eco bags made of lightweight polythene, which are designed to break down naturally after use so there’s no need for them to be recycled. For example, brands like Polythene UK and EcoBags offer such products that will reduce plastic wastage and can be a great addition to your sustainable holiday
Sustainable Activities
Instead of relying on restaurants and bars, why not plan for BBQs and picnics? You could try a few of those homegrown veggies on the side. Now’s the time to perfect your cooking skills. Have a go at some of these delicious BBQ recipes and get ready to impress your family and friends.
Have more fun outdoors this summer by going hiking or cycling, or trying out water sports. These activities require less contact with people, and are environmentally friendly at the same time! It’ll be the first time you’ll actually get fitter on holiday as well.
By keeping it simple this year, you can find ways to protect your family without worrying about your carbon footprint.