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Did you know that mass tourism pollutes, and not just a little? According to the Nature Climate Change study, it would seem that tourism represents almost 10% of greenhouse gas emissions... So at Balzac Paris, we thought it was now or never for you offer our advice for spending ever more responsible holidays.
COMMAND #1
- ESCAPE WITHOUT FLYING AWAY -
Traveling, discovering a new culture, postcard landscapes… all of this is also possible by going to neighboring countries or even by staying in France. And all this while limiting your energy consumption and your CO 2 emissions.
The means of transport is the key to successful eco-responsible holidays! For a long distance journey, the train remains the cleanest means of transport! And at least you are sure to avoid traffic jams on the highway.
And if the destination of your dreams is more than 6,000 km away and you have no other means than to fly, know that thanks to the GoodPlanet foundation you can offset your CO 2 emissions by donating the equivalence in euros to environmental causes.
Don't know what to choose or where to go? Test the GoodPlanet carbon calculator to help you make the best choices.
COMMAND #2
- CAMPING IS GOOD, CAMPING GREEN IS BETTER! -
Once you arrive at your destination, it would be a shame to waste all your responsible efforts by dropping off your suitcases at the biggest hotel complex in the region. Know that there are labeled accommodations, which are committed to reducing their environmental and social impact through reasoned energy consumption, a zero waste policy, or even by offering organic and local meals. And there is something for everyone, from hotels to campsites to guest houses...
You can find a list of certified establishments on the Green Key website .
COMMAND #3
- NEVER WITHOUT MY REUSABLE CUTLERY -
For camping enthusiasts, bringing a reusable tableware kit during your holidays is THE zero waste solution. So yes, it takes a little organization and maybe even a little investment at the start, but it's for a good cause.
And for the others, do the same with your shampoos, shower gels and other treatments. No need to buy everything when you arrive at your holiday home, there are pretty little aluminum or glass containers to carry your treatments. And you'll be even happier to be able to carry all your beauty products in your suitcase!
COMMAND #4
- OUR REGIONS HAVE TALENT -
The holidays are also the perfect opportunity to discover new local products, take the time to go to the market, discuss with the producers or artisans of the region and meet a new culture, which is revealed often be very rewarding.
COMMAND #5
- BEFORE LEAVING, WE UNPLUG EVERYTHING! -
On the day of departure on vacation, we always remember to close the shutters, water the plants and empty the fridge… But don't forget to unplug all your electronic devices, to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
COMMAND #6
- A ZERO-WASTE BEACH -
We love the fine sandy beach with the sunset and the sand castles… Unfortunately, our beaches are turning into giant trash cans where you can find all kinds of waste! Remember to pick up your garbage after a day of relaxing with your feet in the sand. We find more and more sorting bins at the exit of the beaches.
COMMAND #7
- A HAT AND ORGANIC SUNSCREEN -
The best thing about vacation is the warmth of the sun! Yes, but be careful, the rays themselves are not what is best for your skin. So never forget the minimum SPF 30 sunscreen, and not just any cream. We prefer organic sunscreen because it avoids dumping chemicals into our oceans.
COMMAND #8
- THE END OF MOSQUITOES -
The sun is good, mosquitoes less… But that's no reason to run to the first supermarket in the area to buy insecticide, harmful to your health but also to the environment because it contains many agents toxic. Choose mosquito nets, citronella candles or sticky insect traps.
COMMAND #9
- GREEN MERGUEZ -
Despite all the will in the world, it is sometimes very hard to resist a good barbecue with friends! As you know, charcoal is harmful to the environment and to your health, especially because of the burning of fat.
Fortunately, there are electric or gas barbecues which are much less polluting and which will delight you just as much.
COMMAND #10
- TRY ECO-TOURISM -
Be curious and try tourist agencies like Saïga which are committed to sustainable development.
And don't forget to send us a postcard!
