What Countries Are on the Green Travel List?

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next green travel destination, check out this list of countries that are leading the way in sustainable tourism.

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Introduction

As the world becomes more connected, it’s easier than ever to travel to distant lands. But with that increased global mobility comes increased responsibility to tread lightly on the planet.

Fortunately, there are a number of countries that are leading the way when it comes to sustainable tourism and preserving natural beauty. Here are just a few of the standout destinations for eco-conscious travelers.

What is a Green Travel List?

The Green Travel List is a list of countries that have been deemed friendly to travelers who are looking to reduce their impact on the environment. The criteria for inclusion on the list are based on a number of factors, including the country’s infrastructure, its commitment to sustainable tourism, and its overall environmental impact.

So far, the countries that have been included on the Green Travel List are Costa Rica, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland.

The Top 10 Countries on the Green Travel List

The top 10 countries on the green travel list are as follows:

1. Norway
2. Switzerland
3. Austria
4. Costa Rica
5. Chile
6. Belize
7. Estonia
8. Latvia
9. Lithuania
10. Portugal

Why These Countries Made the Green Travel List

Every country has different policies and practices when it comes to eco-friendly and sustainable tourism. Here are some of the reasons why these countries made the Green Travel List:

– Costa Rica has made a commitment to being carbon-neutral by 2021. The country runs on 100% renewable energy, and 54% of its land is protected.
– The Galapagos Islands have some of the most stringent environmental policies in the world. Visitors must take a mandatory environmental orientation, and all tour operators are required to follow strict guidelines.
– Seventy percent of Dominica is covered in rainforest, and the island has been working hard to preserve its natural beauty. Hiking, bird watching, and whale watching are all popular tourist activities.
– Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world. Tourists are required to spend a minimum amount of money each day, which goes towards offsetting their carbon footprint.

Green Travel Tips for These Countries

Here are some top tips for sustainable and eco-friendly travel in [insert country], as well as what travelers can do to reduce their carbon footprint while vacationing there:

As the tourism industry rebounds from the Covid pandemic, many travelers are looking to visit destinations that are not only beautiful and fun, but also responsible and sustainable. So which countries should be on your list for eco-friendly travel? Here are a few of our favorites:

– Costa Rica: A pioneer in sustainable tourism, Costa Rica was the first country in the world to receive the Blue Flag certification for its beaches. Travelers can offset their carbon emissions from flights by participating in reforestation programs through organizations like Carbonfund.org.
– Iceland: With nearly 90% of its energy coming from renewable sources like geothermal and hydroelectric power, Iceland is a great destination for sustainable travel. Visitors can explore the country’s natural beauty by taking advantage of public transportation, going on hiking and biking trails, or taking a dip in one of its many hot springs.
– New Zealand: With a commitment to clean energy and protecting its pristine environment, New Zealand is a great choice for sustainable travel. visitors can explore the country’s natural beauty by taking advantage of public transportation, going on hiking and biking trails, or take a dip in one of its many hot springs.

Other Notable Countries for Green Travel

Here are some other notable countries for green travel:
-Australia: This country has a reputation for being expensive, but there are plenty of ways to enjoy its natural beauty without spending a fortune. Consider traveling during the shoulder season or opting for a less touristy destination.
-Canada: From the Rocky Mountains to the world’s longest coastline, Canada is an outdoor lover’s dream. It’s also one of the world’s most diverse countries, with immigrants making up more than 20% of the population.
-Costa Rica: This Central American country is a popular destination for eco-tourism, and for good reason. More than 25% of the country is protected land, and it’s home to an incredible variety of plant and animal life.
-Finland: If you’re looking for a winter wonderland, look no further than Finland. This Nordic country is known for its stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains and glassy lakes.
-Iceland: Iceland is another great option for winter travel, with its dramatic landscapes and abundance of hot springs. Just be sure to pack your warmest clothes!

How You Can Travel More Greenly

It’s no secret that air travel takes a toll on the environment. In 2018, carbon dioxide emissions from domestic and international flights totaled 915 million metric tons in the United States alone, according to the Environmental Protection Agency—and those numbers have increased steadily over the past decade (1).

But flying isn’t the only way to get around. You can also travel by train, bus, or boat—and in many cases, these modes of transportation are more environmentally friendly than flying.

Here are some tips on how to make your next trip a little more green:

-Plan ahead: consider your destination and how you will get there before you book your travel. This will help you compare different modes of transportation and make the most sustainable choice.
-Choose public transportation: whenever possible, opt for trains, buses, or subways instead of cars or taxis. Public transportation typically emits less carbon dioxide per passenger than private vehicles (2).
-Travel light: bringing fewer bags with you will reduce your carbon footprint—and make your trip easier! If possible, pack only carry-on luggage.
-Stay local: explore your own backyard! Vacationing close to home is one of the best ways to reduce your impact (3). Not to mention, it can be cheaper and just as fun.

The Future of Green Travel

As the effects of climate change become more apparent, travelers are looking for ways to offset their carbon footprints. Many countries are investing in renewable energy and sustainable tourism initiatives to make themselves more attractive to eco-conscious visitors. Here are some of the greenest destinations in the world.

Norway is often cited as a leader in sustainable tourism, and for good reason. The country gets the majority of its power from hydroelectric dams, and it’s working to phase out fossil fuels altogether by 2030. In the meantime, visitors can enjoy the country’s beautiful landscapes without contributing to pollution.

Iceland is another Nordic nation that’s committed to sustainability. In addition to its renewable energy sources, Iceland takes advantage of its geothermal activity to heat homes and public spaces. Whale watching and other eco-tourist activities are also popular among visitors.

Australia is a large country with a diverse landscape, and it’s making strides in sustainable tourism initiatives. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, is threatened by climate change, so authorities are working on plans to protect it. Other sustainable attractions include rainforests, desert landscapes, and indigenous cultural sites.

These are just a few of the many destinations that are working to attract green travelers. As awareness of environmental issues grows, we can expect to see even more countries investing in sustainability initiatives.

FAQs About Green Travel

What does it mean to be a green country?
There really isn’t one answer to this question as “green” can mean different things to different people. For the purposes of travel, green usually refers to destinations that are pristine and unspoiled, that offer ample opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable travel, and that have a low carbon footprint.

What are some of the greenest countries in the world?
This is another difficult question to answer definitively as what one person might deem as “green” might not meet someone else’s criteria. However, some commonly cited examples of green countries include Norway, Iceland, Sweden, Finland, Spain, Portugal, Montenegro, and New Zealand.

What are some tips for sustainable travel?
Sustainable travel is all about minimising your impact on the environment and local communities while you’re on the road. Some simple tips for sustainable travel include: travelling by public transport or cycling where possible; minimising your use of single-use plastics; eating locally sourced food; and supporting local businesses.

Conclusion

This wraps up our series on the top countries for eco-travel. We hope you enjoyed it and that it inspired you to consider some destinations you may not have thought of before.

Remember that when you are planning your next trip, there are a few things you can do to make sure it is as green as possible:

-Do your research ahead of time and try to choose eco-friendly accommodation and transportation options.
-Pack light and only bring what you need, to avoid contributing to carbon emissions from excess weight on flights.
-Be conscious of your energy use while traveling and try to offset your carbon footprint where possible.

Wherever you go, we wish you safe and happy travels!