WCT Travel Guide: Simple steps for sustainable West Coast travel

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Sustainable tourism is becoming more and more important for travellers across the world!

Travellers want to find ways to minimize their environmental impact and contribute positively to the communities they visit. The West Coast, with its vast natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, offers plenty of opportunities for sustainable travel.

Here are a few practical tips for those looking to explore this region responsibly:

1. Choose eco-friendly transportation

Public transit and carpooling: Utilize public transportation options when exploring cities like San Francisco, San Diego, Portland, Seattle, Vancouver and Los Angeles to reduce carbon emissions. Consider carpooling or using shared ride services for longer distances between destinations.

Biking and Walking Tours: Opt for bike rentals or walking tours to explore local attractions. Many West Coast cities offer bike-friendly routes, allowing you to enjoy the sights at a slower pace while minimizing your carbon footprint.

2. Support eco-conscious accommodations

Green certifications: Look for hotels and lodging that have been certified by environmental organizations for their sustainability practices.

Eco-lodges and camping: Experience the natural beauty of the West Coast up close by staying in eco-lodges or camping in designated areas within national and state parks.

When hiking or exploring natural areas, stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Jen Blyth / West Coast Traveller photo

3. Respect wildlife and natural habitats

Observe from a distance: Always observe wildlife from a safe distance to avoid disturbing their natural behaviours and to keep everyone safe.

Stay on Marked Trails: When hiking or exploring natural areas, stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems. Venturing off-path can damage plant life and disturb wildlife habitats.

4. Choose sustainable activities

Eco-tours: Opt for tours that emphasize conservation and education, such as whale watching with companies that follow responsible practices or guided nature walks that teach about local ecosystems.

Volunteerism: Participate in volunteer opportunities that contribute to environmental conservation or community well-being, such as beach clean-ups or tree planting events.

Use binoculars or zoom lenses for a closer look at wildlife – safer for you and for the animals! Jen Blyth / West Coast Traveller photo

5. Eat locally and seasonally

Farm-to-table dining: Support restaurants that source ingredients locally and seasonally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and supporting local farmers.

Visit farmers’ markets: Explore local farmers’ markets to sample and purchase fresh, locally grown produce and artisan products, contributing to the local economy.

6. Reduce, reuse, recycle

Minimize single-use plastics: Carry reusable water bottles, coffee cups and shopping bags to reduce your reliance on single-use plastics.

Recycle and compost: Take advantage of recycling and composting facilities available at accommodations, restaurants and public spaces to minimize waste.

7. Support local and Indigenous businesses

Shop local: Purchase souvenirs and goods from local artisans and shops to keep your tourist dollars within the community.

Indigenous experiences: Engage with Indigenous-led tours and cultural experiences that offer insights into the local history and traditions, ensuring that your visit supports Indigenous communities respectfully and responsibly.

By following these sustainable travel tips, travellers on the West Coast can enjoy its stunning landscapes and cultures while ensuring that their adventures contribute positively to the preservation of this unique region for future generations.

Plan your adventures throughout the West Coast at westcoasttraveller.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @thewestcoasttraveller. And for the top West Coast Travel stories of the week delivered right to your inbox, sign up for our weekly Armchair Traveller newsletter!